Ellian Raffoul

On Saturday, April 13th, 2013, Miljenko 'Mike' Grgich celebrated his 90th Birthday and many of years of accomplishment with a gorgeous evening affair at Grgich Hills Estate Winery. The event, managed and developed by Donte R. Young, the Founder and Managing Principal of the FinMarc Group, was one fit for wine royalty. Guest arrived to the black-tie affair and were lead through a progressive cocktail hour which highlighted Mike's many accomplishments. Accomplishments such as the 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay that bested several white Burgundy wines in the Judgement of Paris, which Mike was the noted winemaker behind and his induction to the Culinary Institute of America Vinetner's Hall of Fame as well as the Smithsonian; were all featured in various way's throughout the winery venue. There was a wonderful four course dinner prepared by Chef Shannon Kelly of Oak Av. Catering Company whose dishes highlighted the pairing of many great Grgich Hills Estate Wines and the Inaugural release of the Paris Tasting Chardonnay. It concluded with a beautiful, heartfelt thank you from Mike, and him signing bottles and taking pictures, with all the guest that were in attendance. Overall it was a memorable and stunning evening, in celebration of one of Napa Valley's most beloved individuals.