Michelin introduces new wine distinction
The Michelin Guide has announced a major expansion of its global awards system with the launch of 'the Michelin Grappe' - a new distinction designed to recognise excellence in wine growing, wine making and terroir expression.
It marks the first time in the Guide’s one hundred and twenty-five–year history that Michelin has introduced a rating specifically for vineyards.
The new system will debut in 2026, with the first selections covering two of the world’s most influential wine regions: Burgundy and Bordeaux.
A natural extension of a century of Michelin expertise
While Michelin stars have rewarded culinary excellence since 1926, the Guide has long acknowledged the role wine plays in shaping the dining experience.
The ‘wine’ pictogram was introduced in 2004 to highlight exceptional food and wine pairings, and the Michelin Sommelier Award followed in 2019 to celebrate individuals elevating restaurant hospitality through wine knowledge and service.
The launch of Michelin Grappe formalises that commitment. For the first time, Michelin inspectors will assess vineyards using the same rigorous methodology applied to restaurants.
The Guide said it aims to recognise not just estates, but “the men and women who personify them,” acknowledging heritage, technical mastery and modern innovation across generations.
How the Michelin Grappe system works
The new distinction mirrors the star system, using one, two or three grapes alongside a category of “selected” vineyards:
Three grapes
Awarded to exceptional producers whose wines demonstrate outstanding quality and reliability across vintages. Michelin said wine lovers should feel “complete confidence” in these estates.
Two
grapes
Given to excellent producers who stand out in their region for consistency and depth.
One grape
Awarded to very good producers crafting wines with clear character and precision.
Selected
A category for dependable estates producing well-made wines that merit regular review.
Five criteria behind every assessment
Michelin confirmed that wine estates will be judged on a universal five-point framework, tested across multiple vintages:
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Agronomy: soil vitality, vine balance and the care applied to vineyard management.
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Technical mastery: precision and rigour in wine making, with wines that express terroir without flaws.
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Identity: a clear sense of place, personality and cultural authenticity.
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Balance: harmony of acidity, tannins, oak, alcohol and sweetness.
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Consistency: quality maintained through both generous and challenging years.
Selections will be made by a dedicated team of wine inspectors employed by Michelin. The group includes former sommeliers, specialist critics and production experts – all trained to assess vineyards collectively and independently.
Burgundy and Bordeaux to lead the first chapter in 2026
Michelin’s decision to begin in Burgundy and Bordeaux reflects their historic and ongoing influence on world wine.
Bordeaux has been a dominant international force for centuries, known for its scale, reputation and blend of innovation and tradition. Burgundy, by contrast, is defined by its human-scale family domaines and its meticulous, terroir-driven approach.
The first Michelin Grappe selections will be published in 2026, opening a new era for how wine estates are recognised on a global stage.
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Michelin introduces new wine distinction
