The new classification of St Emilion has moved forward after French appellations body the INAO met wine producers in the region.

Under the new regime, which will take effect with the 2012 harvest, INAO hopes to placate chateaux which lost their classified status in 2006, Decanter.com reports.

An independent organisation which will monitor the decision-making process surrounding classifications will be established, administered by seven INAO members who do not come from Bordeaux.

In 2006, a furore erupted when producers like Chateau Bellefont-Belcier, Destieux, Fleur Cardinale and Grand Corbin were stripped of their Grand Cru status, although this was rectified in 2009 when a footnote in a law reinstated them.

Speaking to Decanter at the time, Francois Despagne of Chateau Grand Corbin Despagne said: "For us, this means the French state has finally recognised an injustice, and we can put an end to the nightmare that has lasted for ten months."

The St Emilion appellation dates from 1938 and notable producers in the region include chateaux Ausone, Cheval Blanc and Angelus.