The co-owner of one of the world’s most prestigious wine chateaus in Bordeaux has been charged with seeking to unfairly influence the outcome of the coveted Saint-Emilion Grand Cru Classé rankings in his favour.

A promotion in the 82-chateau wine league can double the price of vintages, some of which reach stratospheric levels, and can boost property prices.

In what amounts to an earthquake in the discreet cobbled streets of St Emilion, Hubert de Boüard, 62, co-owner of the famed Chateau Angélus, has been placed under “official investigation” - a French legal term akin to being charged - for "taking illegal interest”.

Another top Bordeaux merchant and owner, Philippe Castéja, 69, has also been charged.

Both deny any wrongdoing.

Legal proceedings against the pair followed a criminal complaint by three disgruntled chateau owners who lost out in the last 2012 rankings and argued that the men had acted as both judge and jury in drawing up the coveted list.