Grgich Hills Estate

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Grgich Hills Estate is a renowned winery located in the heart of Napa Valley, California, known for its commitment to natural winegrowing and sustainability. Founded in 1977 by Miljenko "Mike" Grgich and Austin Hills of the Hills Bros. coffee family, Grgich Hills Estate has played a pivotal role in establishing Napa Valley's global reputation for wine excellence.

History

The history of Grgich Hills Estate is deeply intertwined with the personal story of its co-founder, Mike Grgich. Born in Croatia, Grgich first gained recognition as a winemaker in the United States after crafting the Chateau Montelena Chardonnay that won the prestigious Paris Tasting of 1976, also known as the "Judgment of Paris." This event dramatically transformed the world's view of California wines and propelled Grgich into the spotlight. Motivated by this success, Grgich partnered with Austin Hills to establish Grgich Hills Estate in Rutherford, Napa Valley.

Philosophy and Practices

Grgich Hills Estate is committed to natural winegrowing practices that emphasize environmental responsibility and sustainability. The winery farms its vineyards without artificial fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides, relying instead on organic and biodynamic methods to maintain the health of the vineyard ecosystem. This approach ensures the production of high-quality grapes that truly reflect the terroir of their Napa Valley vineyards.

Wines

Grgich Hills Estate is best known for its Chardonnay, the varietal that brought Mike Grgich to fame. However, the winery also produces a wide range of other wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Zinfandel, and Sauvignon Blanc. Each wine is crafted to showcase the unique characteristics of its vineyard source, with a focus on balance, complexity, and ageability.

Vineyards

The estate owns and operates several vineyards across Napa Valley, including in American Canyon, Carneros, Yountville, Rutherford, and Calistoga. These vineyards are managed under the principles of organic farming, with a focus on creating a harmonious balance with nature.

Visiting Grgich Hills Estate

Grgich Hills Estate offers a variety of tasting experiences for visitors, ranging from casual tastings in their tasting room to more in-depth vineyard tours and wine education sessions. The winery's hospitality reflects its commitment to excellence and its passion for sharing the world of wine with enthusiasts and novices alike.

Recognition and Awards

Over the years, Grgich Hills Estate has received numerous accolades for its wines and sustainable practices. These recognitions highlight the winery's ongoing commitment to quality and environmental stewardship.

Conclusion

Grgich Hills Estate remains a testament to the vision and dedication of its founders. Through its commitment to natural winegrowing, the winery continues to produce wines of exceptional quality that reflect the unique terroir of Napa Valley. As a pioneer in sustainability and organic farming, Grgich Hills Estate sets a standard for responsible winemaking, ensuring that the legacy of Napa Valley's wine industry continues to thrive for generations to come.