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Grgich Hills Estate: A Legacy of Excellence in Winemaking

Grgich Hills Estate, a cherished name in Napa Valley, has recently been nominated as one of five finalists for Wine Enthusiast's prestigious 2026 American Winery of the Year award. This accolade holds great significance not only for the winery but also for the American wine industry, coinciding with a remarkable milestone—the 50th anniversary of the illustrious Judgment of Paris wine tasting held in 1976. This event was a seminal moment that dramatically transformed the global perception of American wines, with Grgich Hills’ 1973 Chardonnay famously emerging victorious.

Founded in 1977 by Miljenko "Mike" Grgich, who was pivotal in the 1976 victory, alongside Austin Hills of the Hills Bros. coffee family, Grgich Hills Estate has remained family-run for nearly five decades. Under the stewardship of Mike's daughter, Violet Grgich, and his nephew, Ivo Jeramaz, who serves as winemaker and Vice President of Vineyards and Production, the winery continues to flourish while upholding Mike Grgich's philosophy: "Every day, do your best, learn something new, and make a friend."

Violet Grgich expressed her excitement regarding the nomination, stating, "Being named a nominee for American Winery of the Year in this milestone year is an incredible honor. As we celebrate 50 years since the Judgment of Paris and look ahead to Grgich Hills Estate's 50th anniversary, we're proud to passionately carry my father's legacy forward while continuing to look toward the future and our commitment to the land, our wines, our people, and generations to come."

The nomination is a testament to nearly fifty years of excellence at Grgich Hills Estate, distinguished for its organic viticulture practices and exceptional wine productions. With a steadfast commitment to regenerative organic farming across all their estate vineyards, the winery has sustained its reputation as one of the most respected wine producers in Napa Valley. As the winery gears up for its 50th-anniversary celebration in 2027, this most recent honor symbolizes a remarkable culmination of various milestones, including the upcoming release of their Paradise Block Old Vine Cabernet Sauvignon in September 2025. This unique wine is crafted from grapes sourced from a historic vineyard block in Yountville, planted in 1959, which Mike Grgich first named "Paradise" when he arrived in Napa Valley in 1958.

Wine Enthusiast's Wine Star Awards, now in their 27th year, acknowledge extraordinary contributions to the wine, spirits, and beverage industry. The American Winery of the Year category is one of four that will reveal a winner, with nominees selected by members of Wine Enthusiast's editorial, marketing, and global sales teams. The winners will be celebrated at the gala event scheduled for January 25, 2027, in San Francisco.

Grgich Hills Estate is committed to producing exceptional wines renowned for their elegance, complexity, and balance. The winery's vision is anchored in replenishing the earth and fostering personal connections, pledging to create a brighter future for upcoming generations. Both the winery and the wines reflect Mike Grgich's values—an ethos of perseverance, continuous learning, and community. All wines are estate-grown, and the winery takes pride in its 100% certified regenerative organic practices, ensuring that the essence of each vintage and the vineyard is captured perfectly in every bottle.

For detailed information about Grgich Hills Estate and their wines, visit Grgich.com and discover the rich history and ongoing legacy of one of Napa Valley’s most iconic wineries.