2025 Grand Tour Roars Across the U.S.

From Chicago to Washington, D.C., to Las Vegas, the more than 3,000 guests at the 2025 Wine Spectator Grand Tour could count on two things when they walked into the event no matter which city they chose. First, that 234 wineries would be pouring some of the greatest wines in the world. Second, that the warm, friendly smile of California winemaker Greg Brewer would be there to welcome them. “Once the tasting starts, I never leave my post. It’s respect for your guests,” said Brewer, pouring his Diatom Santa Barbara County Chardonnay 2023 (93 points). “Everyone is very kind, very engaged.”

- BRUCE SANDERSON

That’s the appeal of the Grand Tour. It brings together America’s most devoted wine consumers with elite wines, all rated 90 points or higher by Wine Spectator editors. The annual event also provides a chance to meet the people behind the bottles. Melissa Burr, founding winemaker at Stoller Family Estate in Oregon, was pouring the Reserve Pinot Noir 2021 (93) even as she and the winery team mourned the recent passing of founder Bill Stoller. “I was very close with him, and he would have been disappointed if I wasn’t here,” said Burr.

This year’s Grand Tour began in Chicago at the Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk on April 26.