A two-day celebration of wine tastings and inspired dining that honours the 50th anniversary of this defining moment in wine history.
J.W. Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District Savannah, GA June 11-12, 2026
Grand Bohemian Lodge Greenville Greenville, SC June 19-20, 2026
In 1976, the Judgment of Paris reshaped the wine world, proving that excellence could emerge from the unexpected. In a blind tasting free of labels and reputation, California wines surpassed some of France’s most celebrated producers, challenging long held perceptions and marking a turning point for American winemaking.
In celebration of the 50th anniversary of this defining moment, Kessler invites you to step beyond labels, expectations, and convention. Hosted in partnership with Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars and Château Montelena, this rare experience revisits the tasting that changed wine history through a weekend of blind tastings, intimate wine dinners, and shared moments designed to engage the senses and spark conversation.
This experience unfolds across two distinct Kessler destinations, guided by a belief in discovery, culture, and community.
Day One — The Modern Judgment: Blind Tasting Experience
Step into the moment that redefined wine history. A guided blind tasting features wines from the original 1976 Judgment of Paris, presented without labels or reputation. American and French wines are experienced side by side, allowing perception alone to guide the tasting.
As impressions are recorded and favorites ranked, representatives from Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars and Château Montelena are joined by an esteemed authority on French wines, offering perspective from both sides of the historic tasting. After the labels are unveiled, return to the wines with full context, engage in conversation with winery and French wine representatives, and enjoy chef paired bites designed to complement the experience.
Day Two — Icons of the Judgment Wine Dinners
Continue the conversation over an intimate wine dinner centered on the American wineries of the Judgment of Paris. Featuring wines from Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars and Château Montelena, the evening highlights the producers whose historic victories helped redefine global standards of excellence.
Designed as a guided, immersive dining experience, thoughtfully composed courses are crafted not simply to pair, but to honor the heritage, evolution, and enduring influence of these iconic vineyards. Winery representatives lead guests through the wines at the table, while Kessler’s culinary leaders frame each course with intention—creating moments of dialogue, perspective, and discovery throughout the evening. As the dinner unfolds, each pairing invites deeper exploration, with flavors and stories building through time and conversation. Together, the wines and cuisine create an experience that reflects one of the most pivotal moments in wine history, continuing to challenge convention and expand what defines excellence.
