Judgment of Paris: A Culinary Celebration

The Judgment of Paris was the pivotal moment that shattered the long-held belief that only France could produce world-class wine, placing Napa Valley squarely on the global map. Organized by Steven Spurrier on May 24, 1976, this blind tasting pitted top-tier Bordeaux and Burgundy wines against ambitious, relatively unknown contenders from California. The panel, composed entirely of French judges, unknowingly awarded top honors to a 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay and a 1973 Stag's Leap Wine Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon. This unexpected triumph sent shockwaves through the wine world, proving that terroir outside of Europe could yield wines of exceptional quality, complexity, and longevity.

For Napa Valley, the impact was transformative, shifting the region from a quiet agricultural community to a premier global wine destination. Before 1976, California wines were often dismissed, but the Judgment validated the dedication of Napa’s vintners and the unique potential of its soils. Now, as we approach the golden jubilee of this historic event, the excitement is palpable. The CIA at Copia is thrilled to spearhead the 50th-anniversary celebrations with a spectacular week of events honoring the connection between French tradition and California innovation.

The week-long festivities at the CIA at Copia will bring the spirit of 1976 to life through a vibrant Marché aux Puces (French flea market) and immersive French-inspired culinary classes throughout the week from Monday, May 11, through Sunday, May 17. The celebration culminates in a gala dinner like nothing the Valley has ever experienced before, curated by a dream team of Napa Valley’s Michelin-starred and renowned chefs, followed by a Grande Tasting featuring dozens of wineries from across Napa’s seventeen AVAs. This week is not just a look back at a historic win; it is a toast to the enduring excellence and collaborative spirit that defines our Valley today.

Info: Bottle Shock is a spirited, wine-soaked underdog story set in 1970s Napa Valley, where long-haired dreamers and stubborn visionaries dare to believe their scrappy California wines can stand toe-to-toe with the mighty French. When ambitious British wine merchant Steven Spurrier decides to host a blind tasting in Paris, the unpolished but passionate team at Chateau Montelena—led by fiery father-and-son duo Jim and Bo Barrett—find themselves swept into a competition that could change everything.

What follows is a sun-drenched clash of old-world prestige and new-world grit, complete with culture shock, crushed grapes, family tension, and plenty of Chardonnay-fueled drama. At its heart, Bottle Shock is about taking risks, trusting your palate, and proving that greatness can come from unexpected places—especially when you’re bold enough to uncork it.

Info: A Toast to History: The Judgment of Paris 50th Anniversary Grand Tasting
Fifty years ago, Napa Valley shocked the world. In 1976, a blind tasting in Paris put American winemaking on the global map, forever changing the course of wine history. Now, half a century later, we invite you to raise a glass to the legends, the pioneers, and the future of wine.

Join us in the heart of Napa Valley for a spectacular, immersive four-hour Grand Tasting. Whether you are a devoted oenophile or simply looking for an unforgettable afternoon of world-class food, culture, and entertainment, you will be guaranteed an experience of a lifetime.

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Host or Publisher The CIA at Copia