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Grgich Hills Estate: A Napa Valley Icon

Experience the legacy of Miljenko "Mike" Grgich at this iconic Napa Valley winery, renowned for its sustainable practices and world-class wines that helped put California on the map.

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Grgich Hills Estate, nestled in the heart of Napa Valley, is more than just a winery; it's a living testament to the American dream and the enduring legacy of its founder, Miljenko "Mike" Grgich. This family-owned and operated estate is renowned for its commitment to sustainable, regenerative organic farming and its consistently world-class wines. Visitors can explore the estate's history, sample its acclaimed Chardonnays, Cabernet Sauvignons, and Zinfandels, and learn about the Grgich family's journey from Croatia to becoming pioneers in the California wine industry. With its beautiful grounds, informative tours, and dedication to quality, Grgich Hills offers a memorable and enriching experience for wine enthusiasts of all levels, solidifying its place as a must-visit destination in Napa Valley.

A brief summary to Grgich Hills Estate

  • Monday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Tuesday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Book your tasting in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability and avoid disappointment.
  • Consider the AVA Tasting for a unique experience that explores the impact of different Napa Valley appellations on wine flavors.
  • Take advantage of the opportunity to learn about Grgich Hills' commitment to regenerative organic farming and sustainable practices.
  • Check the winery's website for special events, such as winemaker dinners or member-exclusive tastings.
  • Allow ample time to explore the grounds and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding vineyards.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Rutherford Cross Road, head east towards St. Helena Highway (Highway 29). Turn right onto St. Helena Highway. Grgich Hills Estate will be on your right in approximately 0.2 miles. Parking is available on-site.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From central Rutherford, a taxi or ride-share to Grgich Hills Estate will take only a few minutes. Expect to pay around $15-$25 for the short trip. Confirm the fare before you start your ride. Parking is free at the winery.

  • Public Transport

    The Napa Valley Vine Transit (NVVT) Route 10 bus runs along St. Helena Highway. The nearest stop to Grgich Hills Estate is at the corner of St. Helena Highway and Galleron Road, a short walk to the winery. A single ride fare is $1.75.

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Discover more about Grgich Hills Estate

Grgich Hills Estate stands as a beacon of winemaking excellence in Napa Valley, a testament to the vision and dedication of its founder, Miljenko “Mike” Grgich. More than just a winery, it's a living story of the American dream, sustainable practices, and the pursuit of crafting world-class wines. Founded in 1977 by Mike Grgich and Austin Hills, of the Hills Bros. Coffee family, the estate quickly gained recognition for its exceptional wines, particularly its Chardonnay. Grgich had already achieved international acclaim for crafting the 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay that triumphed at the 1976 Paris Tasting, a pivotal moment that catapulted Napa Valley onto the world wine stage. This victory served as the impetus for Grgich and Hills to establish their own winery, Grgich Hills Estate, with a commitment to producing wines that reflected the unique terroir of Napa Valley. Grgich, an immigrant from Croatia, brought with him a deep respect for the land and a passion for winemaking. He instilled in Grgich Hills Estate a philosophy of natural winegrowing, eschewing artificial fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides. The estate's vineyards are farmed using sustainable and regenerative organic practices, ensuring the health of the soil and the long-term viability of the land. In March 2023, Grgich Hills received Regenerative Organic Certification, one of only a handful of wineries in the world to do so. Visitors to Grgich Hills Estate are greeted by a welcoming atmosphere, surrounded by the beauty of the Napa Valley landscape. The tasting room, open daily, offers a variety of tasting experiences, from seated tastings of limited-production wines to guided tours of the estate. Guests can learn about the history of the winery, the winemaking process, and the estate's commitment to sustainability. The winery offers an informative display of its history, including a bottle of the 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay crafted by Mike Grgich that won the 1976 Paris Tasting. The estate's wines are a reflection of Grgich's meticulous attention to detail and his belief in allowing the fruit to express itself naturally. The Chardonnay, the wine that launched Grgich's career, remains a flagship of the estate, showcasing the elegance and complexity that can be achieved in Napa Valley. The Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, and other varietals are equally impressive, each offering a unique expression of the Napa Valley terroir. Grgich Hills Estate is not only committed to producing exceptional wines but also to educating visitors about the art and science of winemaking. The estate offers a variety of tours and experiences that provide insights into the winemaking process, from vine to bottle. Guests can walk through the vineyards, learn about the different grape varietals, and observe the winemaking process in the cellar. The legacy of Mike Grgich continues to inspire the team at Grgich Hills Estate. His daughter, Violet Grgich, and his nephew, Ivo Jeramaz, now lead the winery, carrying on his commitment to quality, sustainability, and the pursuit of excellence. The estate remains a family-owned and operated business, with a passion for sharing the story of Grgich Hills with visitors from around the world. A visit to Grgich Hills Estate is an opportunity to experience the best of Napa Valley winemaking, to learn about the history of the region, and to taste wines that are crafted with passion and dedication. Whether you are a seasoned wine connoisseur or a novice, you will find something to appreciate at this iconic Napa Valley estate. The winery is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and welcomes walk-ins, though reservations are recommended for seated tastings and tours. Several tasting options are available, including the Seated Miljenko's Tasting, the AVA Tasting, and the Member Select Tasting. Prices vary depending on the tasting experience. Grgich Hills Estate is easily accessible by car, located on the St. Helena Highway in Rutherford. The winery offers ample parking for visitors. For those who prefer not to drive, several transportation options are available, including taxis, ride-sharing services, and wine tour companies. As Grgich Hills Estate moves forward, it remains dedicated to producing wines of the highest quality, balance, and authenticity, while continuing to lead by example in regenerative farming and sustainable practices. With over 40 years of family ownership and a legacy of excellence, the estate is poised to inspire and captivate wine lovers for generations to come, reinforcing its pivotal role in Napa Valley's rise as one of the world's premier wine regions. Visiting Grgich Hills Estate is more than just a wine tasting; it's an immersion into a world of passion, history, and sustainable practices. It's an opportunity to connect with the land, the people, and the wines that make Napa Valley so special. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious traveler, Grgich Hills Estate promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the art of winemaking and the beauty of Napa Valley. Grgich Hills Estate is a place where tradition and innovation come together, where the past is honored and the future is embraced. It's a place where the American dream is alive and well, and where the pursuit of excellence is a way of life. Come and experience the magic of Grgich Hills Estate for yourself, and discover why it's one of Napa Valley's most beloved wineries.

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