wheresjessieb — Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

Here’s the story + why you should visit now 👇 @chmontelena turned the world on to Napa wines on May 24, 1976, when a British wine merchant named Steven Spurrier organized a blind tasting in Paris. French judges ranked California wines against the best bottles in France, fully expecting France to sweep. Chateau Montelena’s 1973 Chardonnay, made by winemaker Mike Grgich, finished first. Apparently, one French judge was so upset she asked foe her ballot back. The bottle is now in the Smithsonian—and on display at their winery in Calistoga. Now through the end of the year, @chmontelena is offering a special tasting to commemorate the moment, called Story Behind the Bottle. It’s a semi-private tasting experience that traces the estate’s 140+ year legacy alongside a multimedia show of historical imagery. I joined for the experience (and my first ever visit to the property) and loved getting to taste these iconic Napa wines while learning about it, and the valley’s, history. VISIT 𖤓 Where: Chateau Montelena, Calistoga 𖤓 Cost: $75/person 𖤓 Duration: Approx. 60 minutes 𖤓 Available now through end of 2026 They have a whole list of tasting options worth checking out as well—including at their lovely garden gazebos. 👇 Save this for your next trip to Napa. 👉 Follow @wheresjessieb for California wine country finds worth the drive. #napavalley #calistoga #californiawine #visitcalifornia #jessiebinnapa