Historical accounts of the now legendary Château Haut-Brion, tell of noblemen, artists, philosophers, musicians and writers in France in the 15th century – all from varying class and socioeconomic backgrounds – joining together to drink Haut-Brion; discussing what one can only imagine to be the politics of the day, a recent sporting event perhaps, fabric dying techniques, the solar system, the existence of God or of Gods. These informal gatherings allowed those from varied professions, skill-sets and birth rights to share their experiences over a few hearty goblets of wine.
Honouring this social tradition, the first ever luxury brand celebrates the 75th anniversary of its acquisition by Mr. Clarence Dillon, by hosting a series 8 extraordinary dinners in eight of the great cities. The guest list for each is an assemblage of some of the world’s most notable figures in politics, art, philanthropy, theatre, fashion, cinema, music, media, design, finance as well as the crème of aristocracy from across the globe.
The 8 cities visited include the following: Paris, London, New York, Los Angeles, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Tokyo and Moscow. These events will be held in prestigious locations with dinners prepared by 8 of the world’s most celebrated chefs.
The launch of the festivities started in May 2010 in Paris where seventy-five VIPs were invited to the International Diplomatic Academy, a fitting venue since Douglas Dillon, Clarence Dillon’s son, was a member of the Academy when he was the US ambassador in France in 1952.
I was fortunate to attend the London dinner, hosted by Prince Robert of Luxembourg, which took place in the grand dining room at Lancaster House under a glorious stained glass atrium. At two long parallel tables the guests were seated in various interpretations of black-tie, some in traditional silks and brocade while others opted for gothic Alexander McQueen and Avant-garde headpieces.
Seven of the finest Domaine Clarence Dillon wines were served, including Château Haut-Brion Blanc 1994, Château Haut-Brion 1961 and Clarendelle Amberwine 2003. These wines accompanied an exclusive menu of dishes designed to underline the exceptional character of Domaine Clarence Dillon’s wines. The Prince’s guests enjoyed Rillette of Wild Salmon, Ravioli of Pigeon, Herb Crusted Saddle of Lamb, with Brillat-Savarin cheesecake to end.
Today, Domaine Clarence Dillon, a family-owned company enjoys the unique privilege of producing four of the greatest wines in the world: two red wines and two white wines emanating from the prestigious estates of Château Haut-Brion and Château La Mission Haut-Brion.
They have recently developed a new brand structure in order to create a comprehensive collection of wines to be enjoyed on all occasions. All the back labels now bear the ‘Domaine Clarence Dillon’ seal of excellence, a proof of quality and a reference for wine connoisseurs all over the world.
The New York dinner took place on 12th July at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and notable guests included: former President Bill Clinton, designer Zac Posen, Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Forbes, Ms. Gillian Hearst, Lady Lillana Cavendish and Mr. Charlie Rose.
The next celebration dinners will be held in Shanghai on 18th October at the Peace Hotel, Hong Kong on 21st October at the Four Seasons and Tokyo on 27th October.
Los Angeles and Moscow dates and locations still to be decided.
