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.
Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars was founded in 1970 by Warren Winiarski, and the 1973 S.L.V.’s recognition in Paris reflected not only an individual achievement but the strength of the region.
“The 50th anniversary of the Judgment of Paris invites us to reflect on how far Napa Valley has come and the role its wineries have played together in defining perceptions of American wine,” said Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars Estate Director Juan Muñoz-Oca. “For us, this milestone reaffirms our commitment to excellence, to our community of fellow vintners, and to honoring a legacy grounded in quality, collaboration, and respect for place.”
Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars will usher in the 50th anniversary year with curated estate experiences and partnerships, national events, and special releases that honor its five-decade journey and spotlight its legacy.
In collaboration with The Bastion Collection, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars will present a chef-led dinner series at Le Jardinier in New York City on May 7, Miami on May 14, and Houston on June 4. The series pairs iconic wines with refined seasonal cuisine. Additional national wine dinners include Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar on May 29 and Mastro’s Restaurants on October 7 to 8, offering guests across the country celebratory opportunities to explore the estate’s acclaimed portfolio.
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. The day will begin with an immersive tasting staged across the estate, showcasing 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.
Throughout the anniversary year, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars will offer a focused lineup of on-site experiences highlighting its historic vineyards, cellar traditions, and estate wines. Highlights include the 50th Anniversary Judgment of Paris Commemorative Experience in partnership with Bardessono Resort and Hotel Yountville ($1,976 per couple + hotel rate). Two guests will have an opportunity to combine an overnight stay at one of the luxury Yountville resorts with a private experience at Napa Valley’s Judgment of Paris-winning winery. The experience features a guided exploration of the estate, a tasting of limited-production and library wines, a seasonal lunch, and access to one bottle of the Judgment of Paris 50th Anniversary S.L.V. Magnum.
“Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars holds a unique place in the history of Napa Valley and American wine,” said Piero Antinori, the owner of Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars. “Our role is to honor what was built here while ensuring the estate continues to grow stronger with time. Through careful stewardship of the land and respect for the winery’s heritage, we are committed to protecting its identity and guiding it forward for future generations.”
Under the direction of Head Winemaker Marcus Notaro, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars remains dedicated to crafting Cabernet Sauvignons that balance richness and elegance, softness and structure.
“Our responsibility begins in the vineyard and carries all the way into the glass,” said Notaro. “When the land is healthy and the vines are in balance, the wines speak with greater clarity. Each decision we make is about preserving structure, elegance, and a true sense of place so these wines can continue to evolve beautifully over time.”
To learn more, purchase special releases, and reserve experiences, visit stagsleapwinecellars.com.