Ten of France's 200 richest people own Bordeaux estates, research has revealed.

According to a study by French journal Le Nouvel Observateur, reported by the Drinks Business, the fifth wealthiest family in the country are the Pinaults, who own Bordeaux estate Chateau Latour.

The de Rothschild family, owners of fellow First Growth vineyards Chateau Lafite Rothschild and Chateau Mouton Rothschild, are listed at number 73.

Chateau Margaux owner Corinne Mentzelopoulos is close behind at 76, while the Leroy and Villaine families behind Burgundy estate Domain de la Romanee Conti also make the top 200.

However, at the head of the list is Bernard Arnault, boss of the LVMH luxury brands firm. Part of the company's portfolio includes Chateau d'Yquem and Cheval Blanc, as well as Dom Perignon.

Recently published financial results indicate that sales of wines and spirits brought in €1.4 billion (£1.2 billion) for LVMH in the first six months of 2011, thanks largely to a 13 per cent rise in sales of prestige champagne.