By Sam Dangremond. Nov 18, 2016
Michaelo (“Mike”) Grgich was the winemaker who created the 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay that won the Judgment of Paris. Grgich’s bottle and beret are now in the Smithsonian, and this year, visitors at the winery can sample a 40th-anniversary offering crafted to resemble the vintage that put Napa Valley wines on the world stage.
Also, during harvest season visitors can stomp grapes in a barrel at the winery, which Grgich himself did starting at age three when he was growing up in Croatia. Don’t worry—the juice and stomped grapes are used as compost in the vineyard afterward, not for wine.
Tastings from $25 per person; Stomping is $30 per person and $15 for visitors under 21; 1829 St. Helena Highway, Rutherford; 707-963-2784.
