Chalone commemorates a milestone with a special anniversary label for its third-place winning Estate Chardonnay

In 1976, the Judgment of Paris forever changed the course of American wine. At a blind tasting in Paris, Chalone Vineyard’s 1974 Chardonnay placed third among the finest white Burgundies of France—an extraordinary achievement that brought global recognition not only to California, but to the remote Chalone AVA in Monterey County. As the only non-Napa winery among the California winners, Chalone proved that world-class Chardonnay could emerge from its rugged, limestone-rich vineyards high above the Salinas Valley.

In 2026, we proudly commemorate the 50th anniversary of this historic moment with a limited-edition release of our 2024 Estate Grown Chardonnay, featuring a special anniversary label honoring our role in redefining American wine. Crafted from estate vineyards first planted many years ago, this wine continues our legacy as a pioneering icon of California Chardonnay—celebrating 50 vintages since Paris and a future rooted in authenticity, innovation, and place.

The 2024 Estate Grown Chardonnay is available now for purchase on our website, while supplies last.