In 1985, on the initiative of the association of "Crus Bourgeois" winegrowers (see Bordeaux Classification), the wine competition "La Coupe des crus bourgeois du Médoc" was founded, in which the best châteaux classified as "Cru Bourgeois" are selected. Only members are allowed to participate. Until 1996, three vintages were judged each year, in 1996 for example the years 1991, 1992 and 1993. Since 1994 the competition has been split into two parts. These are the wines with the designation of origin "Médoc and Haut-Médoc" and from "communes" such as Margaux. These two series are treated separately until four wines are left from each series. Pairs are then drawn by lot and compared in pairs until the winner is determined. In 1997 the competition was again limited to one vintage. The winner is noted on a giant cup or his name is added to the previous winners.
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