Judgment of Paris 50th Anniversary Celebration
Savor the Rivalry. Celebrate the Unity. Seven Days of Transatlantic Gastronomy.
May 11–17
The Judgment of Paris was the pivotal moment that shattered the long-held belief that only France could produce world-class wine, placing Napa Valley squarely on the global map. Organized by Steven Spurrier on May 24, 1976, this blind tasting pitted top-tier Bordeaux and Burgundy wines against ambitious, relatively unknown contenders from California. The panel, composed entirely of French judges, unknowingly awarded top honors to a 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay and a 1973 Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon. This unexpected triumph sent shockwaves through the wine world, proving that terroir outside of Europe could yield wines of exceptional quality, complexity, and longevity.
For Napa Valley, the impact was transformative, shifting the region from a quiet agricultural community to a premier global wine destination. Before 1976, California wines were often dismissed, but the Judgment validated the dedication of Napa’s vintners and the unique potential of its soils. Now, as we approach the golden jubilee of this historic event, the excitement is palpable. CIA at Copia is thrilled to spearhead the 50th anniversary celebrations with a spectacular week of events honoring the connection between French tradition and California innovation.
Featured Event
Judgment of Paris Grand Tasting—Sunday, May 17 | 1–5 p.m.
Fifty years ago, Napa Valley shocked the world. In 1976, a blind tasting in Paris put American winemaking on the global map, forever changing the course of wine history. Now, half a century later, we invite you to raise a glass to the legends, the pioneers, and the future of wine.
Join us in the heart of Napa Valley for a spectacular, immersive four-hour Grand Tasting. Whether you are a devoted oenophile or simply looking for an unforgettable afternoon of world-class food, culture, and entertainment, this $300 all-access pass guarantees an experience of a lifetime. Learn more about this event.
Tickets:
- Tier 1 (March 11–April 15): Sold Out
- Tier 2 (Extended through May 16): $200
- Day of (May 17): $300
Judgment of Paris Schedule of Events
The week-long festivities at CIA at Copia will bring the spirit of 1976 to life through a multitude of must-attend (dare we say, FOMO) offerings including:
- Golden Grande Tasting Finale featuring dozens of wineries from across Napa’s 17 AVAs including Judgment of Paris’ winners, Chateau Montelena and Stag’s Leap, along with Freemark Abbey, Domaine Carneros, Taittinger, St. Supery, and many, many, more
- Immersive French-inspired culinary classes such as specially curated Californian vs. French cuisine and our always-sold-out “Inside Julia’s Kitchen”
- Movie nights (with wine, of course) including the highly entertaining, Bottle Shock comedic storyline of the Judgment of Paris
- Exclusive showing of Master Sommelier Andrea Immer Robinson’s Judgment of Paris documentary and panel discussion with winemakers including Robert Mondavi and Beaulieu Vineyards
This week is not just a look back at a historic win; it is a toast to the enduring excellence and collaborative spirit that defines our Valley today.
Inside Julia’s Kitchen: Celebrating French Cuisine Culinary Class
Monday, May 11 | 9 a.m.–2 p.m.
Step into the world of French cuisine with a hands-on cooking class inspired by Julia Child’s legendary TV show, The French Chef. This engaging and interactive session will transport you to the heart of classic French cooking, where you’ll master essential techniques, embrace the joy of experimentation, and most importantly—have fun in the kitchen!
Under the guidance of our CIA instructors, you’ll learn to prepare timeless French dishes just as Julia did—with enthusiasm, a dash of humor, and a fearless attitude. From a perfect Tarte tatin to a rich boeuf bourguignon, each recipe will be broken down into simple steps, making it accessible for all skill levels.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home cook, this class will teach you the art of French cuisine while celebrating the spirit of Julia Child—where mistakes are embraced, butter is celebrated, and cooking is always an adventure. Bon appétit!
Pricing: $250/person
Additional Info: Limited to 16 people
Sold Out
Bistro Cuisine Culinary Class
Tuesday, May 12 | 9 a.m.–2 p.m.
Step into the charm of a Parisian bistro and discover the timeless flavors of France. While the words bistro and brasseries may bring to mind fancy French-ness, the food served in these French cafes is casual fare, like cozy comfort foods that come from a rich history of necessity and sustenance. Guided by CIA chefs, you’ll master approachable techniques that bring the warmth and sophistication of a French brasserie right to your own kitchen.
You’ll whisk, sauté, and flambé your way through a menu that celebrates France’s culinary soul—then gather around the table to enjoy your creations with a glass of wine, just as the French do.
Pricing: $250/person
Additional Info: Limited to 16 people
Farm to Table Culinary Class
Tuesday, May 12 | 9 a.m.–2 p.m.
Experience the heart of California cuisine—fresh, local, and beautifully simple. In this hands-on class, you’ll cook with the best the season has to offer, celebrating the farms, artisans, and producers who make California’s food scene world-renowned. Guided by CIA chefs, you’ll learn how to transform peak-season ingredients into vibrant, flavorful dishes that showcase the essence of farm-to-table cooking.
From just-picked produce to sustainably raised meats and local olive oil, each recipe highlights the bounty of Northern California and the joy of cooking close to the source.
Then, sit down to enjoy the meal you’ve created–paired with a glass of California wine, of course.
Pricing: $250/person
Additional Info: Limited to 16 people
Quench at Copia—The Mount “Crushmore” of American Wine
Wednesday, May 13 | 5–6:30 p.m.
Be a part of the live studio audience in the Napa Valley Vintners Theatre at CIA at Copia! Master Sommelier Andrea Immer Robinson takes her newest podcast series, Quench at Copia, to another level with special guest experts and you in the audience!
This month Andrea will be taking us through the renowned Judgment of Paris of 1976 as part of our 50th Anniversary Celebration, when Napa Valley became a global icon.
This is not a standard wine tasting. This is a masterclass in gastronomy.
While Napa offers hundreds of tasting experiences throughout the Valley, it is almost unheard of to have direct, intimate access to talent of this caliber in a single evening. This is your opportunity to bypass the standard tasting room script and learn directly from seasoned hospitality professionals.
Andrea and special guest Steve Matthiasson will discuss and share with the audience:
- Matthiasson Linda Vista Chardonnay
- Trois Noix Muir-Hanna Chardonnay
- Corison Sunbasket Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon
- Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars SLV Cabernet Sauvignon
- Robert Mondavi Winery To Kalon Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon
Pricing: $125/person
The Grove Judgment of Paris Prix Fixe
Wednesday, May 13 | 5–9 p.m.
Experience an incredible menu curated to include both California and French dishes with the option to pair with the wines from the Judgment of Paris and additional Californian and French wines discussed and tasted during the Judgement of Paris Documentary on Saturday, May 16.
Pricing: $95/person
Inside Julia’s Kitchen: Celebrating French Cuisine Culinary Class
Thursday, May 14 | 9 a.m.–2 p.m.
Step into the world of French cuisine with a hands-on cooking class inspired by Julia Child’s legendary TV show, The French Chef. This engaging and interactive session will transport you to the heart of classic French cooking, where you’ll master essential techniques, embrace the joy of experimentation, and most importantly—have fun in the kitchen!
Under the guidance of our CIA instructors, you’ll learn to prepare timeless French dishes just as Julia did—with enthusiasm, a dash of humor, and a fearless attitude. From a perfect Tarte tatin to a rich boeuf bourguignon, each recipe will be broken down into simple steps, making it accessible for all skill levels.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home cook, this class will teach you the art of French cuisine while celebrating the spirit of Julia Child—where mistakes are embraced, butter is celebrated, and cooking is always an adventure. Bon appétit!
Pricing: $250/person
Additional Info: Limited to 16 people
The Grove Judgment of Paris Prix Fixe
Thursday, May 14 | 5–9 p.m.
Experience an incredible menu curated to include both California and French dishes with the option to pair with the wines from the Judgment of Paris and additional Californian and French wines discussed and tasted during the Judgement of Paris documentary on Saturday, May 16.
Pricing: $95/person
Bistro Cuisine Culinary Class
Friday, May 15 | 9 a.m.–2 p.m.
Step into the charm of a Parisian bistro and discover the timeless flavors of France. While the words bistro and brasseries may bring to mind fancy French-ness, the food served in these French cafes is casual fare, like cozy comfort foods that come from a rich history of necessity and sustenance. Guided by CIA chefs, you’ll master approachable techniques that bring the warmth and sophistication of a French brasserie right to your own kitchen.
You’ll whisk, sauté, and flambé your way through a menu that celebrates France’s culinary soul—then gather around the table to enjoy your creations with a glass of wine, just as the French do.
Pricing: $250/person
Additional Info: Limited to 16 people
The Grove Judgment of Paris Prix Fixe
Friday, May 15 | 5–9 p.m.
Experience an incredible menu curated to include both California and French dishes with the option to pair with the wines from the Judgment of Paris and additional Californian and French wines discussed and tasted during the Judgement of Paris documentary on Saturday, May 16.
Pricing: $95/person
Bottle Shock Movie Night
Friday, May 15 | 8–9:30 p.m.
Bottle Shock is a spirited, wine-soaked underdog story set in 1970s Napa Valley, where long-haired dreamers and stubborn visionaries dare to believe their scrappy California wines can stand toe-to-toe with the mighty French. When ambitious British wine merchant, Steven Spurrier, decides to host a blind tasting in Paris, the unpolished but passionate team at Chateau Montelena—led by fiery father-and-son duo Jim and Bo Barrett—find themselves swept into a competition that could change everything.
What follows is a sun-drenched clash of old-world prestige and new-world grit, complete with culture shock, crushed grapes, family tension, and plenty of Chardonnay-fueled drama. At its heart, Bottle Shock is about taking risks, trusting your palate, and proving that greatness can come from unexpected places—especially when you’re bold enough to uncork it.
Pricing: $10
Additional Info: Wine available for purchase.
The Grove Judgment of Paris Prix Fixe
Saturday, May 16 | 5–9 p.m.
Experience an incredible menu curated to include both California and French dishes with the option to pair with the wines from the Judgment of Paris and additional Californian and French wines discussed and tasted during the Judgement of Paris documentary on Saturday, May 16.
Pricing: $95/person
The Swirled Cup Documentary
Saturday, May 16 | 4–6 p.m.
This groundbreaking documentary will take you on a vibrant journey into the culture of wine, exploring how the combination of soil, climate, topography, and human tradition—‘terroir’—not only gives life to the vines, but also defines the personality of each wine.
Join Andrea for the premiere of her 40-minute documentary exploring the real story behind the Judgment of Paris, with reflections on terroir and wine culture, followed by a panel discussion with the inimitable Cathy Corison.
Pricing: $20
Watch the Trailer
Judgment of Paris Grand Tasting
Sunday, May 17 | 1–5 p.m.
A Toast to History: The Judgment of Paris 50th Anniversary Grand Tasting
Fifty years ago, Napa Valley shocked the world. In 1976, a blind tasting in Paris put American winemaking on the global map, forever changing the course of wine history. Now, half a century later, we invite you to raise a glass to the legends, the pioneers, and the future of wine.
Join us in the heart of Napa Valley for a spectacular, immersive four-hour Grand Tasting. Whether you are a devoted oenophile or simply looking for an unforgettable afternoon of world-class food, culture, and entertainment, this $300 all-access pass guarantees an experience of a lifetime.
The Grand Wine Experience
- The 1976 JOP Featured Pavilion: Step back in time and taste history. This exclusive pavilion honors the legendary winning wineries of the original Judgment of Paris, offering a rare opportunity to sip wines from the legends that started it all.
- Fifty Premier Wineries: Embark on a tasting journey through up to 50 of the finest estates, showcasing the incredible diversity and world-class quality of modern winemaking.
Culinary Excellence
- Gourmet Food Action Stations: Watch CIA chefs in action as they prepare mouth-watering, freshly made bites designed to pair flawlessly with your wine selections.
- The Grove Experience: Explore a vibrant, bustling area perfect for grabbing a gourmet bite, relaxing in the shade, and mingling.
- Culinary Garden: Wander through our lush, garden space where the flavors of Napa come alive, featuring fresh, local ingredients and a lively, open-air atmosphere.
A Transatlantic Festival of Arts and Entertainment
- Live Entertainment Everywhere: Feel the energy of live musical performances by Bandjango, who will be playing the perfect soundtrack for a sunny Napa afternoon.
- Street Performers: Experience the whimsy of a transatlantic street fair with lively street performers roaming the grounds.
A Blind Tasting Like No Other
- Witness wineries go head-to-head with themselves as they pour varietals from their French and American sister properties. Who will win? Everyone.
Immersive Moments
- Have a seat at the judges’ table and rub elbows with wine royalty
- Travel back in time with a walk on map of Napa Valley
- Grab a figurative glass of wine at a corner French Bistro
Secure your place in wine history. You aren’t just buying a ticket to a tasting; you are stepping into a vibrant, four-hour celebration of the exact moment Napa Valley became a global icon.
Tickets:
- Tier 1 (March 11–April 15): Sold Out
- Tier 2 (Extended through May 16): $200
- Day of (May 17): $300
The Grove Judgment of Paris Prix Fixe
Sunday, May 17 | 5–9 p.m.
Experience an incredible menu curated to include both California and French dishes with the option to pair with the wines from the Judgment of Paris and additional Californian and French wines discussed and tasted during the Judgement of Paris documentary on Saturday, May 16.
Pricing: $95/person
Winery Partners
