Visit any wine shop today and you will find fine vintages from the world over—Australia, South Africa, even New England is getting in on wine culture. In the midst of these new brands, though, two locations have proudly held the reputation for the finest wines in the world—France and California.
Ever since the famous 1976 Judgement of Paris when California first proved their worth against the French, these two regions have been in fierce competition.
One brilliant French vintner, however, saw above the culture conflict and embraced the future, bridging the two opposing worlds with his winery.
That vintner was G.H. Mumm. The man behind Mumm Napa, one of the greatest vineyards in California and one that can trace its heritage all the way to 1827.
Mumm Napa’s history goes back nearly 200 years. Founded in 1827 by three men of the Mumm family, Champagne was first made under the Mumm name in Reims, France. It continued that way for 150 years until 1976. That was the year America disrupted the wine world with the Judgement of Paris—a tasting competition between France and California where, to the world’s surprise, California won.
As France reeled from the bottle shock, the Mumms decided to scout out locations in California suitable for growing traditional champagne grapes. Their first American vintage was released in 1983 and they have been producing quality California sparkling wine ever since.
Today, the vineyard still uses traditional French techniques. It’s what they pride themselves on. In fact, you can visit and see for yourself. Attend one of their daily tastings while strolling through an art gallery of Ansel Adams originals. Or, relax with a bottle in the warm California sunshine on the Oak terrace—named for the 180-year old oak tree that you can lounge beneath.
With an eye for the future and a hand for tradition, Mumm Napa makes wine right. Make a visit and see how the best of two worlds tastes.