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Château Haut-Brion

Bordeaux, France

Ethos: revealing the quintessence of our exceptional terroirs.

Incomparable history
From grape-growing history traceable to the first century to being one of the original four Premier Grand Cru Classés of the famous 1855 judgments, Château Haut-Brion’s heritage is undoubtedly impressive. It can also claim to be the first Bordeaux wine brand named according its specific plot of land, and to have instigated the style of age-worthy red wine (known as “New French Claret”) for which the region is now known worldwide. Add in plaudits from the likes of philosopher John Locke and US Founding Father Thomas Jefferson, and you may feel star struck visiting this 53-hectare estate, in Graves.

Owned by the Dillon family since the 1930s, it is currently managed by fourth generation Prince Robert of Luxembourg along with two other estates, plus a revered wine shop and two-Michelin-starred restaurant in Paris.

Your visit
Booking here is essential but worth it. Within the main château is an evocative circular wine library designed personally by Prince Robert, along with his wine museum featuring viticultural paraphernalia dating back to Roman times.

In 2021, after four years of work, the Pavillon Catelan started welcoming visitors to an early nineteenth century estate house: reception spaces can host bespoke events and tastings on the ground and first floors, with a patio looking out onto the vineyards. Down below, atmospheric cellars sell the group’s wines and accessories, with special tasting events to keep an eye out for. Open Tuesday to Saturday.

The wines
A concise collection displays the best of Bordeaux, with vineyards planted to the classic grape varieties and Merlot taking the lead in the reds (in addition to Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot). Only the finest grapes go into the flagship “Château Haut-Brion Rouge,” which is powerful, smoky and capable of extensive aging. The more approachable “Le Clarence de Haut-Brion” is named after the American banker who kicked off the Dillons’ tenure. Two whites are made with Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc and a touch of Sauvignon Gris.

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