Grgich Vina Winery: A Croatian Gem on the Adriatic Coast

By Lee Porteous

My good friend Mike McColgan of Blackhawk, California, writes a widely enjoyed weekly review highlighting exceptional wineries in Napa and Sonoma—home to some of the world’s premier wine producers.

This week’s article takes us beyond California wine country to the stunning Dalmatian Coast of Croatia, where my wife Mary and I recently experienced one of the most memorable vacations of our lives: a yacht and bike tour along the breathtaking Adriatic Sea.

One of the highlights of our journey was visiting Grgich Vina Winery, a remarkable winery perched on a hillside above the small town of Trstenik on the Pelješac Peninsula, about 45 minutes south of Dubrovnik. From this spectacular setting, the winery overlooks the azure waters of the Adriatic—famous for their crystal-clear, calm, and inviting beauty.

Grgich Vina produces approximately 60,000 bottles annually, focusing on two signature varietals. Their white wine, Grgich Vina Pošip, is crafted from grapes sourced from the nearby island of Korčula. Their red wine, Grgich Vina Plavic Mali, comes from 6,600 vines planted on the steep hillsides above the winery.

We were fortunate to enjoy a personalized tour of the winery, followed by a tasting of both wines paired with delicious local cheeses and prosciutto. The setting was unforgettable—the serene blue waters below and the lush green hills above created a truly magical atmosphere.

For wine lovers familiar with Mike Grgich and Grgich Hills Estate in Rutherford, California, this visit carried even deeper significance.

Miljenko “Mike” Grgich was born in Croatia in 1923 and grew up in a family of eleven children on a farm not far from the present-day location of Grgich Vina Winery. From an early age, he developed a deep connection to the land, working hard tending sheep, caring for vines, and participating in the annual grape harvest. He later pursued formal education at the prestigious University of Zagreb.

The turmoil of World War II and the political and economic instability that followed led Mike to seek a new life abroad. His journey eventually took him through Italy, Germany, and Canada before he finally arrived in Napa Valley, California.

Mike’s early winemaking career included positions at Beaulieu Vineyard and Christian Brothers Winery. His legendary reputation was cemented when he crafted the Chardonnay for Château Montelena, which won the famed 1976 Judgment of Paris—a landmark event that forever changed the global perception of California wines.

Later, Mike partnered with Austin Hills of Hills Bros. Coffee to establish Grgich Hills Estate in Rutherford. The winery quickly became one of Napa Valley’s most respected names, and as they say, the rest is history.

Mike Grgich passed away on December 13, 2023, at the age of 100. He is survived by his daughter, Violet Grgich, president of Grgich Hills Estate, who continues his extraordinary legacy.

We feel incredibly fortunate to have visited Grgich Vina Winery in Croatia and to have experienced first hand the roots of Mike Grgich’s remarkable story. It was a journey filled with beauty, history, and exceptional wine.

For anyone seeking a magical and unforgettable travel experience, I highly recommend visiting the Dalmatian Coast of Croatia—and making time for a stop at Grgich Vina Winery.

It is a place where wine, history, and breathtaking scenery come together in unforgettable fashion.

Continuum Estate: A Mondavi Legacy Reimagined on Pritchard Hill

Perched high above Napa Valley on the storied slopes of Pritchard Hill, Continuum Estate stands as a testament to the Mondavi family’s enduring pursuit of excellence. The hill itself carries a rich history—named for Charles Pritchard, a New York native who settled the rugged terrain in the 1860s and became one of the region’s earliest non‑native pioneers. 

Today, this elevated landscape is home to one of Napa’s most revered winegrowing sites. Founded in 2005 by Tim and Marcia Mondavi, Continuum represents the next chapter of a winemaking lineage that spans more than a century and four generations. Their vision is clear: to craft wines that honor their heritage while expressing the singular character of this extraordinary vineyard.

From the moment you arrive, the estate feels almost celestial. Sweeping vistas stretch across Napa Valley, with the distant shimmer of the San Francisco Bay completing the panorama. The vineyard’s steep slopes, volcanic soils, and meticulous farming practices form the foundation of Continuum’s distinctive style. Hand‑harvested fruit and gravity‑flow winemaking further preserve the purity and elegance of each varietal—primarily Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot.

Our host, Lyndsey, welcomed us with warmth and deep expertise. After a thoughtful tour of the property, we settled into the newly constructed Estate House, a serene, light‑filled space overlooking immaculate vineyard rows. It was the perfect setting to experience the wines that define Continuum’s identity.

The tasting began with the 2023 Sentium, a vibrant blend of 99% Sauvignon Blanc and 1% Semillon. Crisp, refreshing, and beautifully textured, it set an elegant tone for what followed. Next came the 2023 Novicium, a youthful yet refined expression composed of 91% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc, 3% Petit Verdot, and 2% Malbec. Its balance and depth hinted at the promise of future greatness.

The pinnacle of the experience was the 2023 Continuum, crafted in celebration of Tim Mondavi’s 50th vintage. This masterful blend—46% Cabernet Sauvignon, 41% Cabernet Franc, 7% Merlot, and 6% Petit Verdot—captured the essence of Pritchard Hill with remarkable grace and complexity. Each wine was paired with thoughtful accompaniments: Toma cheddar, Midnight Moon goat’s milk cheese, Marcona almonds, Castelvetrano olives, and a fresh French baguette from Model Bakery.

Among the lineup, the 2023 50th Anniversary Continuum and the 2023 Sentium stood out as personal favorites. We brought a bottle of each back to Danville, eager to share them with fellow wine enthusiasts.

Continuum Estate is more than a winery—it is the embodiment of a family’s legacy, passion, and unwavering commitment to world‑class winemaking. For anyone exploring Napa Valley, it is unquestionably a must‑visit destination and a profound reminder of what can be achieved when heritage and terroir converge.

To learn more or schedule a visit, explore:

https://www.continuumestate.com/contact/

Glennhawk Vineyards: Danville, California

Recently, we had the pleasure of visiting Glennhawk Vineyards, the only licensed winery in Danville, California — truly a hidden gem nestled in the scenic foothills beneath majestic Mt. Diablo.

Established in 2004, Glennhawk Vineyards is owned by Linda and Glenn Novotny, whose remarkable journey from Nebraska to California wine country is a testament to the idea that dreams really can come true. What began as a passion project has blossomed into a beautiful “slice of heaven” where exceptional wines, stunning surroundings, and genuine hospitality come together.

From the moment you arrive, it is clear that Glenn and Linda pour their hearts into every aspect of the vineyard and winery. Their enthusiasm for crafting world-class wines is contagious, and their dedication to excellence is reflected in every bottle. Using organic and biodynamic farming practices, they carefully cultivate premium grapes while honoring the land and environment.

The winery’s name itself holds special meaning — combining Glenn’s first name with Hawk, Linda’s maiden name — creating the perfect symbol of their shared vision and partnership.

Their impressive red blends showcase a rich combination of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Zinfandel, resulting in wines that are elegant, balanced, and full of character. We thoroughly enjoyed the tasting experience and, not surprisingly, left with several bottles to enjoy at home.

Glennhawk’s wines are crafted under the expertise of winemaker Kevin Vecchiarelli, whose 25 years of experience includes work at some of Napa Valley’s most iconic wineries. His talent and artistry are evident throughout the portfolio.

For wine lovers seeking a unique and intimate tasting experience close to home, Glennhawk Vineyards is truly a special discovery in the East Bay.

For more information, wine tastings, or to join their wine club, visit www.glennhawkvineyards.com

Clos Pegase Winery : Born Again Under New Ownership

Recently, we had the pleasure of visiting Clos Pegase Winery, one of Napa Valley’s most distinctive wineries where art, architecture, and exceptional wine beautifully come together.

The winery’s name is rooted in two classical references: Clos, the French term for an enclosed vineyard, and Pegase, the French spelling of Pegasus, the mythical winged horse symbolizing the connection between wine and the arts.

Located in the heart of Calistoga, the estate was founded in 1983 by Jan Shrem and Mitsuko Shrem, whose shared passion for fine wine and art inspired the creation of this remarkable property. The estate was designed by legendary architect Michael Graves and built to showcase the Shrems’ extensive art collection, including works by Salvador Dalí and Pablo Picasso.

Beyond the tasting rooms, the property features underground caves for barrel aging along with a beautiful Heritage Garden adorned with classical sculptures, making the winery feel as much like a cultural destination as a wine estate.

After operating the winery for decades, Jan Shrem sold the property to  Vintage Wine Estates in 2013. Following the company’s bankruptcy in 2024, the iconic estate was purchased by Jay Adair, billionaire CEO of  Copart, and his wife Tammi.

Following an extensive renovation and a year-long closure, Clos Pegase has truly been “born again” and has recently reopened with renewed elegance and energy.

Our knowledgeable hosts for the afternoon were Russell and Rae — appropriately nicknamed “Ray of Sunshine.” We enjoyed our tasting in the beautifully refreshed main tasting room featuring elegant furnishings, striking artwork, and a welcoming fireplace that warmed both the room and the spirit.

We began with the 2021 Blanc de Noir Sparkling Wine, perfectly chilled and wonderfully refreshing. From there, we sampled the 2021 Cabernet Franc, the 2022 Pinot Noir Dijon Clone 777, and the 2021 Pinot Noir from Mitsuko’s Vineyard. We enjoyed the Cab Franc and the 2021 Pinot so much that we brought a bottle of each home to Danville to share with wine friends.

We concluded our tasting with the silky smooth 2023 Hommage Cabernet Sauvignon — a memorable finish to an outstanding experience. These wines were crafted by winemaker Robin Akhurst, who has been with the winery since 2016.

In conclusion, Clos Pegase Winery is truly a “must-do” destination to add to your Napa Valley wine bucket list — whether you appreciate world-class wines, inspiring architecture, or the seamless blending of art and hospitality.

To make a reservation, visit  www.Clospegase.com

Archer Hotel Napa

Recently, we had the pleasure of staying at the beautifully appointed Archer Hotel Napa, a sophisticated boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown Napa. Opened in 2017, the hotel features 183 thoughtfully designed guest rooms, many offering private balconies or cozy fireplaces that add warmth and charm to the experience. The hotel is also pet-friendly, offers ADA-accessible accommodations, and provides valet parking for added convenience.

One of the hotel’s most unforgettable highlights is the spectacular Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar. With sweeping views of Napa Valley, it is the perfect setting for morning coffee, leisurely brunch, casual bites, or sunset cocktails. We especially enjoyed the lively energy of guests relaxing and celebrating in such a beautiful atmosphere. After a day of wine tasting, it truly feels like the perfect place to unwind.

Step outside the hotel and you are immediately surrounded by Napa’s vibrant collection of restaurants, tasting rooms, boutiques, and nightlife — all within easy walking distance. The entire downtown atmosphere feels welcoming, energetic, and wonderfully restorative to the soul.

Most impressive of all, however, was the exceptional hospitality. From the moment you arrive, the staff goes above and beyond to make you feel genuinely valued and cared for. Their warmth and attention to detail elevate the entire experience.

Archer Hotel Napa is truly a “must experience” destination for any Napa Valley getaway. The only downside is having to leave — although you quickly realize you will absolutely be returning.

For more information or reservations, visit Archer Hotel Napa

Robert Mondavi Winery Renovation

Recently, we had the pleasure of visiting the long-awaited reopening of Robert Mondavi Winery following its remarkable multi-million-dollar transformation.

Founded in 1966, the winery has long been a cornerstone of Napa Valley winemaking. This three-year project by Constellation Brands was far more than a renovation—it was a complete reimagining of the estate. While preserving its iconic archway and bell tower, the property now features elegant vineyard-view terraces, a beautifully curated botanical garden in place of the former lawn, and an entirely new hospitality wing offering elevated tasting and culinary experiences. Guests can also enjoy guided cellar tours and vineyard walks, with experiences beginning at $60.

Behind the scenes, the winery has embraced innovation with state-of-the-art production facilities, dedicated spaces showcasing the renowned To Kalon Vineyard, and meaningful sustainability efforts—including water recycling, rainwater capture, energy efficiency upgrades, and organic certification achieved in 2023.

In short, Robert Mondavi Winery has evolved into a true luxury destination.

During our visit, we enjoyed a curated tasting in the new hospitality wing overlooking the famed To Kalon Vineyard. Our knowledgeable host, Mark, guided us through a memorable lineup, beginning with a crisp and refreshing 2022 Fumé Blanc from the Oakville District. We then sampled a 2022 Merlot from Oak Knoll District, followed by a 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon from Stags Leap District and another 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon from Oakville—each one exceptional.

The highlight of the experience was tasting the 60th Anniversary Cabernet Sauvignon alongside winemaker Kurtis Ogasawara. It was such a special moment that we brought a few signed bottles back to Danville to share with fellow wine enthusiasts.

In conclusion, this newly reimagined estate in Napa Valley is truly a “must-do” for any wine lover’s bucket list.

To reserve your experience, visit RobertMondaviWinery.com.

2026 Mexico Cruise

 

Recently, our family had the pleasure of traveling to Mexico aboard the Ruby Princess on a 12-day cruise. Having experienced many cruises around the world, one of the standout features of this trip was its departure from and return to San Francisco—the beautiful “City by the Bay”—allowing us to completely avoid air travel.

To make the journey even more seamless, we arranged for a driver to take us to and from our home in Danville to the San Francisco Cruise Terminal—an easy and stress-free start and finish to the trip.

Our voyage began with a spectacular sail under the Golden Gate Bridge on a crystal-clear day. The itinerary included three ports of call: La Paz, Mazatlán, and Cabo San Lucas.

Among the many highlights were the exceptional food, lively nightly entertainment, attentive service, and a wide range of daily activities—truly something for everyone.

We especially enjoyed the Princess Premium beverage package, which included unlimited premium wines and cocktails across the ship’s 14 bars, as well as dining upgrades to two of their finest restaurants. The Crown Grill featured outstanding steaks and seafood, while Sabatini’s delivered a first-class Italian dining experience.

We also made a point to stay active, walking three to five miles each day and taking advantage of the ship’s excellent fitness center and spa.

One of the most memorable experiences was participating in a Guinness World Record event in Cabo San Lucas during a sashimi festival. Tables stretched nearly a mile through the town, setting a new world record. It was a truly unique and “cool” experience, complete with music and local restaurants serving fresh sashimi.

The trip concluded with a festive St. Patrick’s Day celebration—an ideal ending to a sensational journey filled with smooth sailing and beautiful, warm weather.

For more information or to book a cruise, visit:

https://www.princess.com/

Top 26 for 2026

After originally publishing our Top 10 Favorite Wineries, we quickly realized that list didn’t do justice to all the incredible places we’ve discovered. After visiting several new wineries, we’ve officially expanded the list — it’s now our Top 26.

You can read detailed reviews of each one on my blog:

https://mikemccolgan.blogspot.com

We feel incredibly fortunate to have visited more than 400 wineries throughout Napa, Sonoma, and Healdsburg. Each one offers something unique — whether it’s the wine itself, the terroir, the passion of the team, or the story behind the label.

Over lunch one afternoon, we challenged ourselves to choose our favorites. It was not easy. We considered the quality of the wine, the character of the vineyard, the hospitality, the winemaking philosophy, and the overall experience. Every winery has its own personality and leaves a lasting impression.

One especially memorable visit was blending our own wine at Raymond Vineyards. We not only learned a great deal about the art of blending, but we also created a wine we truly loved — our very own “McColgan Private Reserve.” The blend is 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, and 20% Cabernet Franc. It remains one of our most fun and hands-on wine experiences — truly a must-do.

In no particular order, here are 26 wineries we highly recommend visiting. Some are well-known, others are hidden gems — and the good news is that all are conveniently located within easy reach of Danville.

Rombauer Vineyards

BV Vineyards

Silver Oak

Grgich Hills

Chateau Montelena

Pine Ridge

Buena Vista

Caymus

Faust

Hall

La Sirena- Heidi Barrett

Antinori Napa Valley

Stag’s Leap

Chimney Rock

Davis Estates

Vineyardist

Lokoya

Aperature

Lewis Cellars

Palmaz

Gandona

Lithology

Melka Estates

Raymond Estates

Cultivar

VGS

 

Go to their web sites and make an appointment. You will not be disappointed. 

Parable Wines: Dedicated to Crafting World-Class Wine

Trey Eppright’s passion for wine began at the age of 15, sparked by a single sip of Champagne that set him on a journey from Texas to Napa Valley. Trey and family founded Parable Wines in 2021, a family endeavor rooted in curiosity, heritage, and craftsmanship.

Trey discovered the former Dutch Henry Estate, a 10.6-acre pristine property that had been ravaged by the 2020 Glass Fire. The estate features a subterranean wine cave and a completely remodeled residence, offering both history and promise. While Parable’s wines are currently produced at Arrow & Branch, plans for a dedicated winery facility have been approved—an exciting next step toward fully realizing their vision.

As described on the Parable Wines website, “Each bottle of Parable wine uncorks a tale of heritage and character. We celebrate the symbols and stories that inspire our craft, honoring the origins of each wine with reverence and warmth.” This philosophy was evident throughout our visit.

On a sun-splashed day overlooking the vineyard, we enjoyed an intimate and informative tasting of five exceptional Parable wines, guided by Trey and Brindley.

The tasting began with the 2022 Ritchie Vineyard Chardonnay from Sonoma’s Russian River Valley. The Ritchie Vineyard is widely regarded as one of California’s Grand Cru vineyards, and this wine showcased remarkable purity and elegance.

Next was the 2022 Larry Hyde & Sons Chardonnay, sourced from Los Carneros. This wine beautifully balanced Old World refinement with New World vibrancy.

The third Chardonnay was the A18 Antica Vineyard Chardonnay, grown at 1,400 feet above the Napa Valley floor. Its rugged, elevated site is reminiscent of Chianti Classico, lending the wine structure and distinctive character.

The first red was the 2021 Vangone Parable Cabernet Sauvignon, sourced from a compelling site situated on two rocky plateaus at 1,672 feet in the Vaca Mountain Range.

The tasting concluded with the 2021 Parable Cabernet Sauvignon from Beckstoffer Bourn Vineyard. The vineyard’s history is as impressive as the wine itself. William Bowers Bourn, credited with building Greystone Cellars—now home to the Culinary Institute of America—purchased the property in 1872 as a family estate. The 13-acre vineyard, all but one acre planted, was acquired by Beckstoffer in 2010 and continues to produce wines of exceptional pedigree.

In summary, all of the wines were outstanding. We were particularly taken with the Ritchie Vineyard Chardonnay and the Beckstoffer Bourn Cabernet Sauvignon, and happily brought a bottle of each back to Danville to share with our wine friends.

The Parable Wines story is just beginning, and it will be a pleasure to follow their passionate pursuit of perfection as they continue crafting truly world-class wines.

For more information or to make an appointment, visit:

https://www.parablewines.com/experience

2021 Silver Oak Napa Valley Release Day

Recently, we had the pleasure of attending Silver Oak’s 2021 Napa Valley Release Day, a highly anticipated celebration marking the debut of its newest Napa Valley vintage. This beloved tradition takes place on the first Saturday in February for the Napa Valley release and the first Saturday in August for the Alexander Valley vintage.

Silver Oak began this tradition in the 1980s, and it has since become a sold-out signature event for loyal patrons. The day features an unforgettable lineup of renowned local chefs, live music, photo booths, and, of course, the opportunity to enjoy the newest Silver Oak vintage in the stunning setting of their iconic winery.

The 2021 Silver Oak Napa Valley is composed of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by small amounts of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. Aged for 24 months in 50% new American oak barrels, this full-bodied yet elegant wine delivered layers of depth and balance—bringing, as many attendees described, “smiles of joy” throughout the event.

This year’s culinary program was equally impressive, featuring three exceptional chefs whose résumés are far too extensive to fully capture here. Silver Oak Executive Chef Preeti Mistry, Chef Kim Alter of Nightbird in San Francisco’s Hayes Valley, and Chef Dominica Rice-Cisneros of Bombera in Oakland showcased their talents by creating inspired dishes that paired flawlessly with this world-class wine.

In every sense, it was a day of great wine, extraordinary food, and shared celebration. We already look forward to attending future release events—because, as Silver Oak so perfectly puts it, “Life is a Cabernet.”

For more information or to plan a visit to the winery, http://www.silveroak.com