Grape:  Sauvignon Blanc

Tasting Notes: Tropical Fruit, Lemon grass, Mineral, Smoke

Mike Grgich made the 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay — the white wine that won the Paris Tasting. Grgich is a must-have in any vintage—yes, because of the winery’s royal lineage, but also because of the staggering quality they continue to deliver year after year. 

In  1968, Miljenko “Mike” Grgich went  to work for Robert Mondavi as chief enologist, making the inaugural release of “Fume Blanc”. This elegant, dry style of oak-aged Sauvignon Blanc was named “Fume Blanc” by Robert Mondavi, playing on the French word meaning smoke. The wine is lively, balanced, and medium to full-bodied with great structure, great complexity and enormous precision. The fresh palate conveys green apple, tropical fruit, lemon grass, herbs, smoke, and sandalwood flavors with a touch of minerality and a silky, brisk finish. Pair this wine alongside fish tacos, fresh goat cheese, Pad Thai Chicken, or Chicken Fajitas.