definition of first growth?

[winoweenie]

Portah the French did a strange thing back in 1855. They decided they would designate the quality of the vineyards. Being of sound mind they reasoned that the price being paid for a bottle of the juice should correctly determine the quality. The 1st classification had only 4 1st growths. After over a century of making great wine, Mouton was added in the 70's. This is the only change in the classification of the 1sts' since the original designation. Today there are 5 official 1st growths. WW