Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars marks a milestone year in 2026 as Napa Valley comes together to honor the 50th anniversary of the Judgment of Paris, the historic blind tasting that redefined global perceptions of American wine.

The anniversary is shared across a small group of Napa Valley wineries whose participation in the 1976 tasting represented a defining chapter for the region. Among them were Chateau Montelena, Clos du Val, Freemark Abbey, Heitz Cellar, Mayacamas Vineyards, Spring Mountain Vineyard, and Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars.

Founded in 1970 by Warren Winiarski, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars was shaped by a belief in precision, balance, and respect for place, values that informed the early vintages of Stag’s Leap Vineyard (S.L.V.) Cabernet Sauvignon.

The 1973 S.L.V.’s recognition in Paris reflected not only an individual achievement, but the strength of a broader community working toward a shared standard of excellence. As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary this year, the legacy of this achievement in wine continues to stand as a touchstone of American innovation and craftsmanship.

Anchoring the milestone year in Napa Valley, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars will host two signature, estate-based celebrations on October 10 that bring together the wineries at the heart of the original Judgment of Paris: Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, Chateau Montelena, Clos du Val, Freemark Abbey, Heitz Cellar, Spring Mountain Vineyard, Mayacamas Vineyards, and Grgich Hills Estate.

The day will begin with an immersive tasting staged across the estate, showcasing exceptional wines from the participating wineries. In the evening, an intimate, winemaker-hosted dinner will be hosted in the caves at Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars.

For those traveling to Napa Valley during the milestone year, the Judgment of Paris Travel Guide further extends the experience, highlighting the seven pioneering wineries from the 1976 tasting and offering curated routes that invite visitors to explore the region through the legacy of this landmark moment.

From Napa Valley, the anniversary will extend outward through a curated series of national dining experiences and notable wine gatherings, connecting the legacy of the historic tasting with audiences across the country:

Among the experiences: Estate tastings and master classes; national wine dinners, wine and culinary events and special releasees.