This is pure Napa, known since establishment in 1977 for forthright chardonnay, learnt when Michael Grgich’s previous employer Montelena took success in Paris the previous year. Found in Rutherford, at 1829 St Helena Highway, the owners Grgich and Austin Hills own 366 acres of vines. These stretch to American Canyon, Carneros, Yountville, Rutherford and Calistoga. Importantly all properties are certified organic and in transition/there at being biodynamic. The hallmark white is Napa Chardonnay 07 and nearby Carneros Selection 06 for something a little cooler. The next major white is the barrel-influenced Fume Blanc 08, razor sharp sauvignon wine. Napa Cabernet 06 is a bold bottle, or for a vineyard based wine try Cabernet Yountville Selection 05. Other reds include Napa Merlot 05, Napa Zinfandel 07 and Napa Petite Syrah 06. Grgich now hold regular tastings in Singapore and Thailand. Production is 70,000 cases.