Michelin Guide Introduces 'Michelin Grapes,' A New International Wine Rating System
- David Malec
- Dec 3, 2025
- 2 min read
The 125-year-old culinary body will introduce one-, two-, and three-Grape classifications, starting with Burgundy and Bordeaux in 2026.
The Michelin Guide is broadening its international culinary impact to the wine sector by introducing a new accolade known as the Michelin Grapes, a rating system intended to acknowledge wine producers with the same esteemed rigour that characterises its restaurant and hotel evaluations, as stated by the brand.
The award will categorise vineyards with one, two, or three Grapes, in addition to a classification of selected producers subject to periodic evaluation. Michelin asserts that the Grapes system serves as a reliable reference for wine consumers of varying expertise, ranging from casual aficionados to experienced collectors, representing a substantial enhancement of the Guide's authority since the inception of Michelin Stars in 1926 and Michelin Keys in 2024.
“Having guided wine enthusiasts to the premier dining establishments in over 70 locations and the globe's most sophisticated hotels, the Michelin Guide is pleased to embark on a new venture within the realm of wine,” stated Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guide. This new reference is intended for both inquisitive amateurs and dedicated experts, rewarding those who cultivate the most challenging vineyards globally.
Three Tiers of Distinction
The new approach will designate three Grapes to indicate outstanding producers whose wines consistently perform well across all vintages. Two Grapes will identify estates that differentiate themselves through superior excellence and consistent quality relative to their counterparts. One Grape will emphasise exceptional winemakers recognised for their distinctive wines, especially in their most outstanding vintages. A "Selected" category will designate reliable vineyards earmarked for ongoing assessment.
A 5-Point Evaluation Process
To ensure uniformity across international wine areas, Michelin inspectors will utilise five standardised criteria when evaluating producers:
Excellence in agronomy, encompassing soil health, vine equilibrium, and vineyard maintenance.
Expertise in winemaking techniques, highlighting accuracy and the expression of terroir.
Identity, emphasising wines that reflect a unique sense of terroir and cultural legacy.
Equilibrium, assessing the interplay among acidity, tannins, oak, alcohol, and sweetness.
Uniformity throughout many vintages, honouring wines that sustain or enhance quality annually.
Michelin underscored the autonomy of its methodology, stating that evaluations will be conducted by a cadre of expert wine inspectors drawn from many fields such as sommelier expertise, wine critique, and production. Recommendations will be generated collaboratively via a panel review procedure.
Initial 'Michelin Grape' Regions: Burgundy and Bordeaux
The inaugural Michelin Grapes choices will debut in 2026, commencing in Burgundy and the Bordeaux region, two of France's most renowned vineyard areas. Michelin described the regions as "emblematic" selections that embody the historical significance and cultural depth of French wine. Bordeaux, historically recognised as a global standard for creativity and tradition, continues to host some of the world's most esteemed estates. Burgundy, characterised by its family-operated vineyards and precise craftsmanship, has significantly influenced generations of wine identity focused on terroir.
Michelin informed discerning dining and beverage enthusiasts to remain attentive for the initial Grapes announcements in 2026.
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