Blessing of the Grapes 2024: Continuing the Legacy at Grgich Hills Estate
By Tim Carl
NAPA VALLEY, Calif. — September in Napa Valley brings with it a distinct charm. The morning fog lifts, revealing the sun-drenched vineyards, only to return in the evening as if to gently blanket the valley. This year, as the vines began to take on their first autumnal hues against the backdrop of the towering Mayacamas Mountains, we gathered at Grgich Hills Estate Winery to honor a tradition the winery has faithfully upheld for decades — the Blessing of the Grapes. With the grape harvest just recently underway, the ceremony took on added significance, marking the start of the most crucial time of year for winemakers.
This year’s blessing was especially poignant, as it was the first without Miljenko “Mike” Grgich, the winery’s co-founder and a pioneering force in Napa Valley, who passed away earlier this year at nearly 101. His daughter, Violet Grgich, president and CEO, welcomed guests with the warmth and grace that has become synonymous with the Grgich name.
"It’s difficult but also joyful, knowing how much he contributed to our happiness and success," Grgich said. "My father built a strong foundation that has enabled us to go forward for many generations, getting better every year, hopefully. This is our 48th harvest, and though we miss him, his spirit is very much alive in everything we do."
Father Mark Kisner from the Carmelite House of Prayer in Oakville, who has presided over this ceremony for years, led the blessing, sprinkling holy water over freshly harvested sauvignon blanc grapes from American Canyon. As he passed olive branches to Grgich and Ivo Jeramaz, vice president of vineyards and production, a moment of quiet reflection settled over the gathering. This was more than just a ritual; it was a poignant reminder of the continuity of life, even in the face of loss.
“We give thanks to God for the harvest and we bless the people,” Kisner said. “God is the source of all, and the workers are the lifeblood of this process. They face challenges every day, and we ask for protection and safety for all of them throughout the season.”
The ceremony gathered a broad collection of individuals who have been integral to the winery’s journey. Among them was Austin Hills, co-founder alongside Mike Grgich.
"It’s a wonderful harvest with top-quality grapes," Hills said. Reflecting on the winery’s inception, he added, "We broke ground on the Fourth of July in 1977 and were ready for crush by harvest — a record-breaking construction."
Michael Mondavi, a longtime friend and fellow vintner, attended the inaugural blessing 48 years ago and has witnessed the winery’s evolution.
"It’s fun to see this, one of the heritage families, stay solid in Napa," Mondavi said. "The partnership between Mike and Austin was a marriage made in heaven, built on mutual respect. They debated ideas and always came to positive solutions."
Violet, ever the musician, played her father’s favorite songs on the accordion, accompanied by her husband, Colin Shipman, on bass — “You Are My Sunshine,” “Que Sera, Sera,” the popular Mexican “Cielito Lindo” and “Marijana,” a Croatian song — echoing memories of past blessings when Mike would join in with a smile, his voice steady despite his years. This year the songs felt like a bridge between the past and the present, a celebration of a life well-lived and the legacy left behind.
Jeramaz, who has been instrumental in advancing Grgich Hills’ commitment to organic and regenerative farming, spoke enthusiastically about the promising vintage.
"Our vineyards are in terrific shape with no stress, thanks to our holistic farming practices," Jeramaz said. "We expect fantastic quality this year. Regenerative organic farming isn’t just better for the environment; it’s more profitable in the short term and ensures our vines live for many decades."
Violet echoed this commitment to sustainable practices.
"We’re super proud to be regenerative organic certified," she said. "We’ve seen visible success with our farming methods — no standing water during floods, no smoke taint during wildfires and healthier vines overall. We’re on a mission to get as many people as possible to adopt this approach, from large farms to backyard gardens."
The blessings and reflections underscored a strong sense of community. The gathering brought together employees, customers, neighbors and friends, each playing a vital role in the ongoing story of Grgich Hills Estate.
"It’s both a thank you and a celebration," Grgich said. "We want to acknowledge everyone who helps us be successful. This is what we’ve waited for all year."
As the ceremony concluded, guests lingered, sharing stories and toasting to a harvest that honors the past while embracing the future. The melodies filled the air, a nod to Violet’s father’s love for music and the joy he found in bringing people together through wine.
"With hard work, positivity and love, you can achieve anything," she said, reflecting on her father’s philosophy. "We make wine that brings people together and makes them happy. If we can spread that word of love and joy throughout the world, it’ll be a much better place."
As the gathering began to disperse, she offered one final reflection: "This blessing isn’t just for the grapes or the wine we produce — it’s for the people, the community and the land that sustains us. My father believed that the true blessing of this event lies in bringing people together, and today that belief continues to guide us."
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Tim Carl is a Napa Valley-based photojournalist.