We know why you’re here. Who wouldn’t want to know the no-doubt astonishing value of the winning vintages of the most famous wine tasting on earth? Let us know if you cross paths with a bottle that is not squandered away in a cellar, away from curious eyes (and mouths). We’re also keenly interested in how much the Judgment of Paris wines are worth today.
Instead of yearning for what doesn’t exist (despite our best internet sleuthing), let’s find out which triumphant wineries still produce their coveted winning wine and at what cost to you — the curious consumer.
To understand the significance of these wines, let’s first journey back to the pivotal year of 1976 when the Judgment of Paris tasting took place. This was no glitzy affair but a moment of quiet significance.
On May 24th, nine esteemed French judges, led by England’s Steven Spurrier and America’s Patricia Gallagher, sipped French and American wines, their discerning notes marking a pivotal moment in the history of wine.
The results of the Judgment of Paris tasting were not just a win for the underdogs but a seismic shift in the world of wine. The outcomes were nothing short of shocking. In a stunning twist, a Chardonnay from Chateau Montelena and a Cabernet Sauvignon from Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars swept the competition, leaving the Old World stunned and the New World celebrating.
The results were revolutionary, catapulting California’s winemakers from relative obscurity to international acclaim. Fast-forward to today and those winning wines symbolize a journey from underdog to icon, from obscurity to ubiquity.
Those vintages that shocked the world with their brilliance now command hefty price tags (if you can find them). So, are you ready to discover the modern descendants of the wines that changed history?
Winning White Wines
California Chardonnay vs. Burgundy Chardonnay
5th Place: Joseph Drouhin Beaune 1er Cru Clos des Mouches
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Winning vintage: 1973
Current vintage: 2022
Current price: ≈ $175
4th Place: Spring Mountain Vineyard Chardonnay
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Winning vintage: 1973
Current vintage: not available
Current price: not available
3rd Place: Chalone Vineyard Chardonnay
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Winning vintage: 1974
Current vintage: 2022
Current price: $33
2nd Place: Domain Roulot Meursault Charmes 1er Cru
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Winning vintage: 1973
Current vintage: 2020
Current price: ≈ $1,049
1st Place: Chateau Montelena Chardonnay
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Winning vintage: 1973
Current vintage: 2021
Current price: $75
Winning Red Wines
California Cabernet Sauvignon vs. Bordeaux
5th Place: Ridge Vineyards Monte Bello
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Winning vintage: 1971
Current vintage: 2020
Current price: ≈ $250
4th Place: Château Haut-Brion
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Winning vintage: 1970
Current vintage: 2023
Current price: ≈ $600
3rd Place: Château Montrose Saint-Estephe
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Winning vintage: 1970
Current vintage: 2022
Current price: ≈ $225
2nd Place: Château Mouton-Rothschild
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Winning vintage: 1970
Current vintage: 2021
Current price: ≈ $725
1st Place: Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars
Country:
Winning vintage: 1973
Current vintage: 2021
Current price: ≈ $250