The 1855 Bordeaux Wine Official Classification was established during the Exposition Universelle in Paris to showcase the quality of wines from the Bordeaux region. It ranked the wines of the Medoc and Sauternes based on their reputation and price, creating a hierarchy that included five levels, known as "growths." The top tier, called "Premier Cru," featured renowned estates like Château Lafite Rothschild and Château Margaux. This classification has remained largely unchanged since its inception, influencing wine pricing and investment. It serves as a reference for wine enthusiasts and collectors, highlighting the prestige of the classified estates and their historical significance in the wine industry.