The American First-Growth

For three-quarters of a century, the Dillon family has been a dynamic guardian of Bordeaux’s Château Haut-Brion
From the Dec 15, 2010, issue

It was 75 years ago, in May 1935, that Dillon bought Haut-Brion for $155,000. In the decades since, the first-growth has weathered war and occupation, boom times and bad times, and has gone from a historic estate that made outstanding wine to a luxury brand and an icon of wine. Wine Spectator associate editor Mitch Frank explains.

Member-Only Content

Premium Subscription

Join today and get immediate access to this article, and to our entire database of more than 400,000 wine ratings. It only takes moments—but it will help you drink better all year long.

Start Free 30-day Trial

Already a member? Sign In

Try Winespectator.com Free for 30 Days!

Full access to our database of more than 400,000 wine ratings

Early access to reviews on our editors' favorite just-rated wines

Wine and food pairing tool,
chefs' pairing recommendations

Best value wines and winery intel

Subscribe today