In Paris in 1976, producers of America’s finest wines invited an exclusively French panel of judges to take part in a blind tasting. To the surprise of the French establishment, the two winning wines turned out to be American. This “Judgement of Paris” transformed the world of wine classification, which had until then been systematically biased against Californian wines.

To mark the 50th anniversary of this legendary tasting, the Festival Napa Valley commissioned a one-act opera from two leading figures of the lyric stage. The Judgement of Paris revisits this now mythic episode with wit and flair.

Set to music by Jake Heggie whose operas have been acclaimed at the Metropolitan Opera with a libretto by Gene Scheer, this sparkling work playfully and elegantly explores the dialogue between the Old World and the New through the prism of wine.

Blending memory, discovery and celebration, The Judgement of Paris shines a light on a defining moment in modern wine history — and will even offer some audience members the chance to enjoy a Franco-American wine tasting of their own.

Coming soon

PRESTIGE VIP CATEGORY : Best seats in house, you will receive a complimentary programme and a glass of champagne.

PRESTIGE CATEGORY : Excellent seats, you will receive a complimentary programme and a glass of champagne.

CORPORATE GROUP RATE : for more information, please refer to our page dedicated to works councils and groups.

REDUCED GROUP RATE : available for groups of more than 10 people, excluding corporate offers.

In case of any technical problem, the box office service remains available to complete your order by phone at +33 (0)1 30 83 78 89 (Monday-Friday from 11am to 6pm) or in our box office-shop (3 bis rue des Réservoirs, 78000 Versailles ; Monday-Friday from 11am to 6pm, and on Saturdays with concerts or shows except during the Musical Fountains Shows, from 2pm to 5pm).

To ensure the best welcome possible, people with limited mobility are advised to book their seats by telephone.