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.
Dark maroon in color. 14.2% ABV. 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6.5% Petit Verdot and 7.5% Merlot. Dark fruits, anise, cedar and coffee on the nose. Medium in body. Clearly a product of the cool ’11 vintage as the wine lacks the lush mouthfeel I found in many wines from ’10. Currants, cassis, plums, leather and green peppers on the palate. This wine needs several years in the cellar and should drink well through 2020. Tasty Napa Cabernet at a very fair price.
My rating: 91 points.
$60 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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