The Judgement of Paris: May 24, 1976

On May 24, 1976, a pivotal event in the world of wine, known as the “Judgement of Paris,” took place. This blind wine tasting event was organized by British wine merchant Steven Spurrier and held in Paris. It marked a significant turning point in the global wine industry, challenging the long-held dominance of French wines and elevating the status of Californian wines on the international stage.

Context and Background

Prior to this event, French wines were widely regarded as the epitome of quality and sophistication. The wine industry was heavily Eurocentric, with French wines, particularly those from Bordeaux and Burgundy, considered the gold standard. Californian wines, though gaining some recognition, were not taken as seriously by the global wine elite.

The Event

The Judgement of Paris featured a panel of esteemed French judges, including sommeliers and wine experts, who conducted a blind tasting of both red and white wines. The competition included top-quality wines from France and California:

• Red Wines: Primarily Cabernet Sauvignon-based wines from Bordeaux and California.
• White Wines: Chardonnay wines from Burgundy and California.

The Surprise Outcome

To the astonishment of the judges and the wine world, the results revealed that Californian wines had outperformed their French counterparts in both categories:

• White Wines: The 1973 Chateau Montelena Chardonnay from California was ranked the highest.
• Red Wines: The 1973 Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon from California took the top spot.

Aftermath and Significance

The Judgement of Paris had profound implications for the wine industry:

1. Validation of New World Wines: The event validated the quality of New World wines, particularly those from California, and encouraged wine producers in other regions to innovate and improve their craft.

2. Global Wine Industry Shift: It led to a more inclusive and competitive global wine market, breaking the monopoly of European wines and inspiring winemakers worldwide.

3. Cultural Impact: The event was a cultural milestone, symbolizing a shift in perceptions and challenging traditional hierarchies in the wine world.

4. Increased Interest in Wine: It sparked increased interest and investment in wine production and consumption in the United States and other non-European countries.

The Judgement of Paris remains a landmark event in wine history, illustrating the dynamic nature of the industry and the potential for excellence beyond traditional boundaries.