Bordeaux wines are classified into five recognized levels or crus, with each one indicating the relative quality and prestige of the wine. These levels, in ascending order, are as follows:

1. Bordeaux AOC: This is the basic level of Bordeaux wine which makes up the majority of production. It is produced from vineyards throughout the region and can be made from any of the several permitted grape varieties.

2. Bordeaux Supérieur: This classification includes wines from specific areas within the Bordeaux region that have met stricter production standards.

3. Cru Bourgeois: These wines come from specific vineyards within the Medoc region and are judged on their quality and consistency.

4. Cru Classé: This is the highest level of classification, designated for the best wines from specific estates in the Medoc, Graves, and Sauternes regions.

5. Premier Cru: This is the highest possible level of classification and applies only to wines from the Medoc region. There are only five chateaux that carry this classification: Chateau Lafite Rothschild, Chateau Latour, Chateau Margaux, Chateau Haut-Brion, and Chateau Mouton Rothschild.