Understanding classifications: Empirical evidence from the American and French wine industries

Abstract This article compares the classification systems between the American and French wine industries and reveals striking differences: American wines are classified primarily by grape variety, while French wines are classified primarily by appellation based on geographic origin; the classification in appellation is horizontally structured in the American wine industry, while it is vertically structured in the French wine industry. These findings demonstrate that classification systems are socially constructed. Building upon the literature and drawing empirical evidence from these two wine industries, this article develops several theoretical arguments on implications and consequences of classifications. First, classifications confer identities on social actors (or objects), and inherently imply social control. Second, classifications create social boundaries and signify social standing of actors (or objects). Third, classification making often involves political struggles between different interest groups, and classification systems embody the political power. This article further presents a sociological framework to understand classifications, stressing the multi-dimensionality and complexity of classifications. Finally, it discusses the significance of the study of classification in sociology and, in particular, its relations with several prominent lines of research in cultural sociology.