Grgich Hills Estate

Mike Grgich is a Napa Valley icon. During the 1976 Paris Wine Tasting, also known as the "Judgment of Paris," California's Chateau Montelena won the blind tasting competition with their 1973 Chardonnay, made by winemaker Mike Grgich. Today visitors can taste his extraordinary wines at Grgich Hills Estate just off of Hwy 29, the main vein of the Napa Valley. Running on 100% solar power, with grapes that are certified both organic and biodynamic, Grgich Hills farms over 350 acres of vines in and around the valley. Mike was also instrumental in identifying California's Zinfandel grape, via DNA testing, as the Croatian variety Plavac Mali in a research partnership with Carole Meredith.

Wines to Taste from Grgich Hills

Grgich Hills Zinfandel 2009 (CA) $32 - While he won the Paris Tasting back in the day with his Chardonnay, Mike's 2009 Zinfandel will be winning rave reviews from red wine fans for its decisive fruit, meat pairing versatility and overall balance. With plenty of blackberry, raspberry and strawberry fruit and a dash of peppery spice this Zin brings a medium-bodied wine with pliable tannins to the table. Perfect for pairing with backyard barbecue favorites - burgers, brats, grilled steak and pork chops or bring it indoors with your favorite tomato-based pastas, smoked brisket, pot roast and the like.

Grgich Hills Fume Blanc 2010 (CA) $30 - A lively, vibrant white wine crafted from 100% organic Sauvignon Blanc grapes from the cooler climates of Carneros. The Grgich Hills Fume Blanc promises plenty of well-ripened fruit with Meyer lemons, tangerine, and pear dominating the aromatic profile. The palate is crisp, even edgy, with clean lines, balanced acidity, and a refreshing finish. This Fume Blanc would be downright delicious with goat cheese stuffed pappadew peppers drizzled with olive oil and a touch of balsalmic vinegar, a variety of shellfish favorites, grilled halibut, and even sushi.

Visit Grgich Hills Estate

The tours and wine tastings are held daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with the exceptions of Christmas, New Year's, Thanksgiving and Easter. Tastings and tours range from $25-125, depending on what you would like to see, taste, and experience. From organic vineyard education, to barrel samples, library tastings, cheese and chocolate pairings, and harvest season grape stomps - there is plenty to pursue while at Grgich. If fact, few wineries offer the extensive list of tour and tasting options that Grgich Hills manages on a regular basis. They also welcome larger groups, just call ahead to let them know you are coming.

Grgich Hills Estate Address: P.O. Box 450

1829 St. Helena Hwy.

Rutherford, CA 94573

Phone:707.963.8725

Website: www.grgich.com