Mike Grgich Dies at 100; His Wine Stunned the French by Besting Theirs
Mike Grgich, a renowned winemaker, has passed away at the age of 100. Grgich gained international fame when his wine shocked the French wine industry by surpassing their own in a blind taste test in 1976.
Grgich, born in Croatia in 1923, immigrated to the United States in 1958. He quickly made a name for himself in the California wine scene and eventually co-founded Grgich Hills Estate in Napa Valley. His dedication to crafting high-quality wines led to his historic triumph in the famous “Judgment of Paris” wine competition.
The “Judgment of Paris” was a blind tasting organized by British wine merchant Steven Spurrier. It pitted California wines against French wines, which were considered the gold standard at the time. Grgich’s 1973 Chardonnay beat out renowned French labels like Mouton-Rothschild and Puligny-Montrachet, shocking the wine world and putting California’s wine industry on the global map.
Grgich’s victory in the competition not only showcased the quality of American wines but also challenged the long-standing notion that only French wines could produce exceptional results. This breakthrough moment became a turning point in the history of winemaking, elevating California’s reputation as a world-class wine region.
Throughout his career, Grgich remained committed to sustainable and organic winemaking practices. He firmly believed that great wines come from healthy vineyards, and he implemented environmentally friendly techniques to achieve this goal. Grgich Hills Estate became one of the pioneers of organic and biodynamic farming in Napa Valley, setting an example for future generations of winemakers.
Over the years, Grgich received numerous accolades for his contributions to the wine industry. In 2008, he was inducted into the Vintners Hall of Fame, recognizing his significant impact on American winemaking. His wines have consistently received high scores from critics and have been enjoyed by wine enthusiasts around the world.
Grgich’s legacy extends beyond his winemaking achievements. He was known for his warmth, kindness, and passion for sharing his knowledge with others. He mentored many aspiring winemakers and was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. Grgich’s generosity and humble nature endeared him to the wine community and left an indelible mark on those who had the pleasure of knowing him.
As news of his passing spreads, tributes pour in from all corners of the wine world. Winemakers, sommeliers, and wine lovers alike express their gratitude for Grgich’s contributions and mourn the loss of a true legend. His pioneering spirit, unwavering dedication to quality, and profound impact on the wine industry will continue to inspire generations of winemakers to come.
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Source : @OX2U
Mike Grgich Dies at 100; His Wine Stunned the French by Besting Theirs https://t.co/HzKxoaqnwm
— OX2U (@OX2U) December 18, 2023