Meeting the owners of Château Haut-Brion

Who Owns Château Haut-Brion?

Today, Château Haut-Brion is owned by Domaine Clarence Dillon, a family-led company managed by Prince Robert of Luxembourg. This prestigious estate has passed through generations of devoted owners, each contributing to its rich legacy and elevating its status in the world of wine. Under Prince Robert’s stewardship, Château Haut-Brion continues to flourish, combining sustainable practices with innovative techniques to honor and build upon its storied history.

A Rich History

Château Haut-Brion’s origins stretch back over five centuries to 1521. Following his marriage to Jeanne de Bellon, Jean de Pontac took ownership of Haut-Brion’s lands, eventually defining the estate's vineyards and constructing the château itself in 1549. Haut-Brion was further developed by his descendants, including Arnaud III de Pontac, who expanded the estate and increased its renown among British aristocrats and authors.

In 1663, English diarist Samuel Pepys famously recorded his admiration for Haut-Brion, sparking the estate's popularity in England. Haut-Brion’s reputation continued to grow internationally, gracing the tables of notable figures, including Thomas Jefferson, who visited in 1787 and described it as one of the best wines of Bordeaux.

Clarence Dillon and Modernization

In 1935, Clarence Dillon, a New York financier, purchased Château Haut-Brion, marking the beginning of the modern era for the estate. Passionate about fine wine, Dillon invested in vineyard restoration and modernization of the winery, including the construction of stainless steel tanks in 1961. The estate’s legacy was further solidified under the guidance of Dillon’s granddaughter, Joan Dillon, and her son, Prince Robert of Luxembourg, who has overseen recent renovations.

Commitment to Sustainability and Excellence

Today, Prince Robert is dedicated to upholding Château Haut-Brion’s heritage while adopting sustainable practices. The vineyard achieved High Environmental Value (HVE) certification in 2018 and ISO 14001 in 2019. Prince Robert has also enriched the estate with a circular library, housing rare first editions that reflect the family’s cultural dedication.

The Dillon family’s commitment to preserving Château Haut-Brion’s quality, sustainability, and historical significance has helped maintain its status as one of Bordeaux’s most esteemed estates.