The MICHELIN Guide is broadening its influence in the world of gastronomy with the introduction of the MICHELIN Grape, a new distinction that recognises exceptional wine producers and vineyards for the first time.The initiative marks a significant evolution for the globally renowned guide, extending its acclaimed rating system beyond restaurants and hotels to honour the craftsmanship, consistency and terroir of wine estates. The inaugural selection will be unveiled on 7 July 2026 in Côte-d’Or, one of the world’s most celebrated wine regions.The launch places the spotlight on Burgundy’s legendary vineyards, offering wine enthusiasts and travellers a new way to explore destinations renowned for their viticultural heritage.
A new milestone for the MICHELIN Guide
For more than a century, the MICHELIN Guide has shaped global travel through its prestigious restaurant recommendations. Since awarding its first restaurant Stars in 1926 and introducing the MICHELIN Key distinction for outstanding hotels in recent years, the guide has steadily expanded its role within luxury travel and hospitality.With the introduction of the MICHELIN Grape, the organisation is recognising wine producers directly for the first time, celebrating the expertise, dedication and heritage that define exceptional wines.Rather than evaluating restaurants or sommeliers serving wine, the new recognition honours the estates and winemakers responsible for producing each bottle.
Independent assessment focused on quality and terroir
According to the MICHELIN Guide, wine estates will be evaluated through an independent assessment process designed to identify producers that consistently demonstrate excellence while expressing the unique characteristics of their vineyards and terroir.The distinction aims to help travellers and wine enthusiasts discover outstanding wineries, encouraging deeper exploration of some of the world’s most renowned wine-producing regions.The inaugural selection will focus on Burgundy’s prestigious appellations, including:Côte de BeauneCôte de NuitsCôte ChalonnaiseThese regions are internationally recognised for producing some of France’s finest Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines and are among the country’s leading wine tourism destinations.
Four levels of recognition
The MICHELIN Grape introduces a four-tier classification system based on quality, consistency and expression of terroir.Three Grapes represent the highest distinction and are awarded to producers whose wines consistently achieve exceptional quality across multiple vintages.Two Grapes recognise estates known for sustained excellence and a strong representation of their unique terroir.One Grape honours producers crafting high-quality wines with distinctive character, particularly during outstanding vintages.A Selected designation acknowledges reliable producers whose wines consistently offer quality, balance and an enjoyable tasting experience.The tiered system is intended to provide travellers with a trusted reference when planning vineyard visits and wine-focused itineraries.
Boosting wine tourism
The introduction of the MICHELIN Grape reflects the growing importance of wine tourism as a major segment of global experiential travel.Across Europe and other wine-producing regions, travellers are increasingly seeking immersive experiences that combine vineyard tours, cellar tastings, regional cuisine and cultural heritage.By recognising leading wine estates through a globally respected rating system, the MICHELIN Guide aims to strengthen connections between gastronomy, hospitality and destination experiences, offering visitors a curated pathway to some of the world’s most celebrated vineyards.The debut selection in Burgundy is expected to set the foundation for future editions covering additional wine-producing regions worldwide, further reinforcing the MICHELIN Guide’s expanding role in inspiring culinary and experiential travel.
