SeeCalifornia.com

Mike (Miljenko) Grgich, founder of Grgich Hills Estate in Rutherford, Calif., recently turned 90. He wasn’t always that old, but he’s definitely been spirited throughout his life! And he’s living proof that when it comes to wine and wine-making, being old is gold. Actually, we call it “aged” and its attributes include “fine”.

The awards this Croatian immigrant has won are countless. One of his best known is the 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay, champion of the 1976 Paris Tasting, which was selected at the Smithsonian Institute as one of  “101 Objects That Made America.” If you want to meet this legend, he’s sharing a dinner this week on Aug.15 in Napa. He’ll also make a toast to good fortune at the winery’s annual Blessing of the Grapes and Grape Stomp on Aug. 22, 2014. So much energy for being 90! See grgich.com for details.

According to the California wine industry association’s report, 2014 is a solid year for wine grape crops. The weather has been ideal for growing, though yields are down due to the record drought.  There are many fantastic wine events to learn about, taste, and enjoy the best of California’s grapes.