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Article Summary
- Renowned Winemaker Mike Grgich Passes Away at Age 100
- Key Takeaways
- A Toast to a Wine Legend: Mike Grgich
- From Croatia to Napa Valley: Grgich’s Journey
- The 1976 Paris Tasting: A Turning Point
- Grgich Hills Estate: Upholding a Legacy
- FAQ Section
- What was Mike Grgich’s contribution to the wine industry?
- Where was Mike Grgich born?
- What is the Grgich Hills Estate?
- Who runs Grgich Hills Estate now?
- What is the significance of the 1976 Paris Tasting?
- Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy
- Key Takeaways Revisited
Renowned Winemaker Mike Grgich Passes Away at Age 100
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Key Takeaways
- Mike Grgich, a legendary figure in the wine industry, passed away at the age of 100.
- Grgich’s journey from Croatia to Napa Valley is a testament to his determination and passion for winemaking.
- His Chardonnay won the 1976 Paris Tasting, putting Napa Valley on the global wine map.
- Grgich Hills Estate, his winery, continues to produce high-quality wines and uphold his legacy.
- Grgich’s life and work have had a profound impact on the wine industry, and his influence will continue to be felt for years to come.
A Toast to a Wine Legend: Mike Grgich
On March 7, 2022, the world of wine lost one of its most influential figures. Mike Grgich, a renowned winemaker and co-founder of Grgich Hills Estate in Napa Valley, passed away at the age of 100. His journey from humble beginnings in Croatia to becoming a celebrated winemaker in California is a testament to his passion, determination, and skill.
From Croatia to Napa Valley: Grgich’s Journey
Born on April 1, 1923, in the small village of Desne in Croatia, Grgich’s love for wine began at an early age. His family owned a vineyard, and he learned the art of winemaking from his father. Despite the hardships of World War II and the Communist regime that followed, Grgich pursued his passion for wine. He studied viticulture and enology at the University of Zagreb and worked in several wineries in Germany and Canada before finally settling in Napa Valley, California, in 1958.
The 1976 Paris Tasting: A Turning Point
Grgich’s big break came in 1976 when his Chardonnay, produced while he was the winemaker at Chateau Montelena, won the Paris Tasting, a blind tasting competition that pitted California wines against French wines. This victory not only catapulted Grgich to fame but also put Napa Valley on the global wine map.
Grgich Hills Estate: Upholding a Legacy
In 1977, Grgich partnered with Austin Hills of the Hills Bros. Coffee family to establish Grgich Hills Estate. The winery, located in Rutherford, California, continues to produce high-quality wines, including the famous Chardonnay that won the Paris Tasting. Grgich’s daughter, Violet Grgich, now runs the winery, upholding her father’s legacy of excellence and innovation.
FAQ Section
What was Mike Grgich’s contribution to the wine industry?
Mike Grgich is best known for his Chardonnay that won the 1976 Paris Tasting, which helped establish Napa Valley as a premier wine region. He also co-founded Grgich Hills Estate, a winery known for its high-quality wines.
Where was Mike Grgich born?
Mike Grgich was born in the small village of Desne in Croatia.
What is the Grgich Hills Estate?
Grgich Hills Estate is a winery in Rutherford, California, co-founded by Mike Grgich and Austin Hills in 1977.
Who runs Grgich Hills Estate now?
Grgich’s daughter, Violet Grgich, currently runs Grgich Hills Estate.
What is the significance of the 1976 Paris Tasting?
The 1976 Paris Tasting was a blind tasting competition that pitted California wines against French wines. The victory of Grgich’s Chardonnay in this competition put Napa Valley on the global wine map.
Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy
Mike Grgich’s life and work have had a profound impact on the wine industry. His journey from Croatia to Napa Valley, his victory at the 1976 Paris Tasting, and his establishment of Grgich Hills Estate are all testament to his passion, determination, and skill. Even though he is no longer with us, his influence will continue to be felt for years to come.
Key Takeaways Revisited
- Mike Grgich, a legendary figure in the wine industry, passed away at the age of 100.
- Grgich’s journey from Croatia to Napa Valley is a testament to his determination and passion for winemaking.
- His Chardonnay won the 1976 Paris Tasting, putting Napa Valley on the global wine map.
- Grgich Hills Estate, his winery, continues to produce high-quality wines and uphold his legacy.
- Grgich’s life and work have had a profound impact on the wine industry, and his influence will continue to be felt for years to come.
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