Grgich Hills Estate, in Rutherford, in the Napa Valley, was founded in 1977 by Mike Grgich. 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.
Opaque purple in color. 15.3% ABV. 98% Zinfandel and 2% Petite Sirah. Jammy and rich. A nose of anise, vanilla, cherry and pepper. Iron, blood, plum, raspberry, cherry and white pepper on the palate. Medium acidity. The finish is long and spicy. This wine could use another year or so in the cellar to come together.
My rating: 88 points.
$35 at the winery and retail.
Grgich Hills is one of Napa’s iconic wineries. Consider stopping by when you next visit Napa Valley.
This review was based on a sample provided by the winery.
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