Chateau Haut Brion

If you’re seeking one of Bordeaux’s most prestigious wines, Chateau Haut Brion stands in a class of it sown. As the only First Growth from outside the Medoc and the oldest of Bordeaux’s top estates, Haut Brion offers a unique combination of history, terroir, and winemaking excellence.

Legacy: Chateau Haut Brion’s story begins in the early 16th century when Jean de Pontac acquired the estate and began producing wine of exceptional quality. The chateau itself was built in 1549, and by the 17th century, Haut Brion was already a favorite among royalty and statesmen including King Charles II of England and Thomas Jefferson, who praised its wines in his diaries.

In 1855, during the famous Bordeaux Classification, Haut Brion was named a Premier Grand Cru Classe (First Growth) - the only estate outside the Medoc to receive this honor. Since 1935, the Dillon family has overseen the property, upholding its reputation for innovation and excellence.

The Estate: Located in the Pessac-Leognan appellation just outside the city of Bordeaux, the vineyards are planted on a rare gravelly rise. This unique terroir, with its deep gravel soils over clay and sand, provides excellent drainage and encourages the vines to develop deep roots, resulting in wines of remarkable complexity and longevity. The estate covers about 51 hectares, primarily planted to Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, with smaller amounts of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot.

Winemaking: Haut Brion is renowned for its meticulous approach in both vineyard and cellar. Grapes are harvested by hand, and only the best fruit is selected for the grand vin. The red wine is typically a blend dominated by Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, with Cabernet Franc providing aromatic lift and structure. The wine is aged in new French oak barrels for up to 22 months, allowing it to develop depth and complexity.

Tasting Note: A classic bottle of Chateau Haut Brion red offers a deep, radiant color and an expressive bouquet of blackcurrant, tobacco, cedar, and earthy minerals. On the palate, expect a harmonious balance of ripe fruit, fine tannins, and a long, elegant finish. With age, the wine develops additional layers of complexity - notes of truffle, cigar box, and forest floor.

Food Pairing: Pairs beautifully with classic French dishes like roast lamb, beef Wellington, duck confit, or mushroom risotto. The wine’s depth and structure also complement aged cheeses and truffle-based recipes.

Vintages:

2000 is a benchmark vintage with classic balance and longevity.

2006 is structured and refined, ideal for patient collectors.

2010 is a powerhouse with precision and decades of potential.

2012 offers elegance and early approachability.

2015 is fruit-driven and silky, with immediate charm and aging ability.

2018 is rich, concentrated, and modern, built for the long term.

Second Wine: Le Clarence de Haut Brion, the estate’s second wine, offers a more accessible taste of the chateau's style at a lower price point.

Chateau Haut Brion is more than a wine - it’s a piece of Bordeaux history and a benchmark for quality. Whether you’re adding to your cellar or opening a special bottle for a celebration, Haut Brion delivers elegance, complexity, and a sense of occasion that few wines can match. Explore our collection to find the perfect vintage for your next memorable moment.