In 1976, following the results of the famous Parisian tasting, Mienko "Mike" Grgich became known worldwide.
A blind tasting was held between top French wines and Californian wines, and the winner of the white wine category was a 1973 Montelena Chardonnay from California.
The man who made this wine, which helped California wine gain worldwide recognition, was Mike Grgich.
The following year, Mike partnered with Austin Hills of Hills Brothers Coffee to open Grgich Hills Cellars in Napa Valley.
It was Independence Day 1977.
Hills was originally a management specialist and owned several vineyards in prime Napa Valley land in Rutherford, which not only provided him with funding for the winery but also enabled him to exercise detailed control over the business side of things.
Mike, on the other hand, was a winemaker at heart and dedicated to producing the highest quality wines.
The rich, complex Chardonnay produced by this team of perfect match has gone on to win awards around the world and capture the hearts of wine lovers.
Grgich Hills wines are known for their consistent quality and ability to age for a long time, and have been enjoyed at government dinners by US Presidents Reagan and Clinton, as well as Queen Elizabeth II of the UK.
However, what makes the winery truly happy is when Grgich Hills wines are served on the dinner table of an ordinary family, making special occasions and meals even more memorable.
The winery currently produces six wines.
Each grape is brewed with care and sensitivity, taking advantage of its individuality, but it is the Chardonnay that is made with the most special feeling.
An elegant aroma and delicate flavor create an exquisite balance.
The vineyards also produce Fumé Blanc, a sibling of Chardonnay; rich and spicy Zinfandel; deep and full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon; somewhat sexy Merlot; and the elegant and sweet dessert wine "Violetta," named after Mike's daughter.
Mike, whose trademark is his blue beret, is still going strong at over 90 years old.
In 2008, he was inducted into the Vintners Hall of Fame, which honors individuals who have contributed greatly to the California wine industry.
Grgich Hills is currently helmed by Mike's daughter Violet and nephew Ivo Jeramaz.
Never resting on their laurels, the two work hard to improve the quality of their wines every year.
Sustainable grape production is of utmost importance at Grgich Hills.
We believe that environmentally friendly agricultural practices are the only viable long-term way to maintain healthy, productive vineyards.
This results in the production of higher quality grapes.
Grgich Hills practices organic farming in its five owned vineyards, brewing wine using only natural yeast without the use of any chemical fertilizers, pesticides or herbicides.
Mike's favorite phrase is "Homemade wine, direct from the field to your glass!" and we always strive to create delicate and elegant wines that go well with food.
Since 2003, all Grgich Hills wines have listed "Estate Grown" on the label.
This proves that the wine is made from 100% grapes from our own vineyards.
In 2006 the winery went completely solar powered.
To commemorate these achievements, the winery was renamed Grgich Hills Estate in 2007.