Grgich Hills Estate, in Rutherford, in the Napa Valley, was founded in 1977 by Mike Grgich and Austin Hills. Grgich earned fame in 1976 when the Chardonnay he produced as winemaker at Chateau Montelena won first prize among white wines at the now famous Paris Wine Tasting. The estate has 366 acres of vineyards in American Canyon, Carneros, Yountville, Rutherford and Calistoga and is still best known for its Chardonnays, which consistently earn accolades from wine critics. Grgich also makes Fume Blanc, Zinfandel, Merlot, Petite Sirah, Cabernet Sauvignon and dessert wines. Mike Grgich was inducted into the Vintners Hall of Fame in 2008.
I recently had the good fortune to try a few of their new releases.
2013 Grgich Hills Estate Chardonnay – The color of shimmering gold. 14.1% ABV. Super nose of tropical fruits, wet stones and nutmeg. Rich and creamy with bright acidity. Lemon, pear, vanilla and creme brulee on the palate. The finish is crisp and refreshing. Classic, old school California Chardonnay. Drink over the next 3-5 years. $43 at the winery and retail. My rating: 91 points.
2013 Grgich Hills Estate Cabernet Sauvignon – Opaque purple in color. 14.6% ABV. 79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot and 4% Cabernet Franc. Elegant nose of red fruits, anise, minerals and sm0ke. Concentrated and tightly wound with a substantial tannin profile. Currants, cassis, cherries and espresso on the palate. This wine has structure and power and a finish that lingers. Delicious right now but built for the long haul. Drink over the next 7-10 years. $69 at the winery and retail making it a bargain in today’s market. My rating: 92 points.
Grgich Hills is one of Napa’s iconic wineries. Consider stopping by when you next visit Napa Valley.
These reviews were based on samples provided by the winery.
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