Rothschild
From Frankfurt Finance to French Vineyards
The Rothschild family's journey in wine began in the 19th century when Mayer Amschel Rothschilds descendants expanded their influence across Europe. Among them, Baron Nathaniel and Baron James Mayer Rothschild made their mark in Bordeaux, laying the foundation for one of the most iconic wine dynasties in history.
The Rise of Mouton and Lafite
In 1853, Baron Nathaniel acquired Château Brane-Mouton, renaming it Château Mouton Rothschild. Then in 1868, Baron James purchased Château Lafite, which had already earned the prestigious Premier Cru status in the Bordeaux Classification of 1855.
These two estates would come to define excellence in French winemaking.
Art Meets Wine at Mouton Rothschild
Baron Philippe de Rothschild, a pioneer in marketing and winemaking, transformed Mouton Rothschild into a canvas by inviting world-famous artists like Picasso and Warhol to design its labels starting in 1924. This innovation helped build a brand where every vintage told both a story and a taste.
The Historic Promotion to First Growth
In 1973, after years of effort, Mouton Rothschild was officially promoted to Premier Cru, becoming the only estate in Bordeaux history to be reclassified from Second to First Growthrecognizing its consistent excellence.
Global Expansion and New Frontiers
The family continued to expand by acquiring Château Clerc Milon, known for its distinctive dancing figures label, and partnering with Robert Mondavi to create Opus One in California.
Their influence now spans Argentina, Australia, Spain, and Israeleach region enriched by the Rothschild approach to terroir, tradition, and technology.
Their Lasting Influence on the Wine World
- Pioneering quality control and innovation in winemaking
- Building global wine brands with international prestige
- Integrating art and culture into wine presentation
- Boosting wine tourism with iconic estate experiences
The Legacy Lives On
Today, Saskia de Rothschild, sixth-generation heir, leads the family's wine venturesensuring the Rothschild name remains synonymous with luxury, legacy, and excellence in every bottle.
