Two Bordeaux vineyards have become the first classified estates to receive full organic certification.

Chateau Pontet Canet in Pauillac has achieved Agence Bio approval for its 2010 vintage, while Chateau Guiraud in Sauternes has it from 2011, Decanter reports.

Chateau Guiraud has also registered the term BioViticulture, which owner Xavier Planty says recognises that the estate encourages biodiversity, carbon reduction and the recycling of water.

Chateau Pontet Canet director Jean-Michel Comme told the publication that official recognition of the brand's organic credentials was vital.

He explained: "Chateaux who claim to practice organic viticulture without applying for certification are often paying lip service to it simply for marketing reasons.

"To do it properly requires an investment not just of money, but time, human effort and philosophical beliefs."

The example set by these two Bordeaux chateaux could mark a new organic focus across the wine community.

Wine producers in New Zealand this week announced plans to make 20 per cent of the country's vineyards organic by 2020.