Winemaker Paul Hobbs returns to Brazil for exclusive Grand Cru events in São Paulo and Rio, showcasing new vintages and wines from his global projects.
A leading name in world wine
Regarded as one of the most influential winemakers in the world, Paul Hobbs began his career in 1979 with Robert Mondavi, in California. In 1988, he visited Argentina, was captivated by its potential and decided to invest in projects that blend tradition and innovation.
Founder of seven wineries across four continents, he has been named “Personality of the Year” by Wine Enthusiast and “Wine Personality of the Year” by critic Robert Parker. Now, as head of Argentina’s Viña Cobos, he returns to Brazil from December 3–6 for a series of limited-seat experiences.
Paul Hobbs Selections and Estate Vineyard
During his stay, Hobbs will present Paul Hobbs Selections, a range produced in partnership with leading growers. The line includes projects such as Alvaredos-Hobbs in Galicia, Hillick & Hobbs in Finger Lakes, Yacoubian-Hobbs in Armenia and Crocus in Cahors, France.
He will also unveil the 2022 Estate Vineyard vintage from Viña Cobos, featuring a refreshed label design. The collection highlights specific parcels of the Chañares, Hobbs and Zingaretti vineyards, focusing mainly on Malbec, plus Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Cabernet Franc.
With maximum precision and minimal intervention, Estate Vineyard deepens the expression of Mendoza’s terroirs. In turn, it reinforces Viña Cobos’ reputation for innovative and long-lasting wines of superlative quality.
Key new releases
Among the highlights is Alvaredos-Hobbs 2021, created with Galician grower Antonio López Fernández. Produced in the Ribeira Sacra region, it blends Mencía and Garnacha Tintorera, with aromas of blackberry, cherry, cedar and bay leaf.
On the palate, it is structured and elegant, with long, silky tannins reminiscent of black tea, plus subtle minerality and a vibrant finish. The wine showcases the region’s potential for complex, high-end reds.
Another standout is Crocus L’Atelier, developed with Bertrand Gabriel Vigouroux to redefine Malbec in its birthplace, Cahors. Made entirely from Malbec, it features deep garnet color and fresh red and black fruit aromas.
The palate is balanced, lively and juicy, with soft tannins and flavors of elderberry and blackberry, plus a subtle hint of white pepper. It combines typicity with a contemporary take on French Malbec.
Projects in Armenia and Finger Lakes
In partnership with the Yacoubian family, the 2022 Areni is made from Areni and Kakhet grapes planted near the Areni-1 cave, considered the oldest known winery, with over 6,000 years of history.
The wine offers aromas of strawberry, pomegranate and black cherry, alongside violet and rose notes and delicate spices. On the palate, silky tannins, fresh acidity and a mineral touch emphasize the character of the Armenian terroir.
From Seneca Lake in Finger Lakes, the Estate Dry Riesling 2021 is Hobbs’ most recent project. Its ambition is to demonstrate the highest level of Riesling quality in the Americas.
The nose reveals delicate gardenia, layers of pear and citrus and crushed-stone minerality. The palate brings vibrant acidity, a textured mouthfeel and a long, mineral finish.
Dinners and tastings in São Paulo
Wine lovers will be able to meet Paul Hobbs at two Grand Cru events in São Paulo. Both include tastings of five iconic Viña Cobos labels, such as Cobos Vineyard Chañares Cabernet Franc 2021 and Cobos Volturno 2021.
The first is the Wine Dinner Cobos with Paul Hobbs, on December 3, at restaurant Osso, led by Peruvian chef Renzo Garibaldi. The second is the Wine Dinner 6 tempos, on December 4, at Miya Wine Bar Campo Belo, with tickets starting at R$1,440.
Exclusive agenda in Rio de Janeiro
In Rio, the schedule starts with the opening of D’Praça Ipanema restaurant, on Rua Barão da Torre, 358. The venue will host three exclusive events for guests, press and influencers, all attended by Paul Hobbs.
The Grand Cru Ipanema 580 store will also host a special tasting for invited guests. These activations celebrate the winemaker’s visit and strengthen his connection with the Brazilian market.
When and where to find the wines
The new labels presented by Paul Hobbs will be available in Brazil starting May 2026. They will be sold in Grand Cru brick-and-mortar stores and via its e-commerce platform.
By bringing these wines to the country, Grand Cru expands access to benchmark terroirs and emerging regions. Consequently, it reinforces Brazil’s position among the world’s leading wine-consuming markets.
About Grand Cru
Grand Cru is Latin America’s largest fine wine importer and retailer. Founded in 1998, it now offers more than 1,300 labels from major wine regions, with delivery to all Brazilian states.
Since 2022, it has been part of the Víssimo Group and operates a strong multichannel model. The structure includes franchises, company-owned stores, app, e-commerce, subscription club, live commerce and on-trade distribution.
With over 140 stores nationwide and more than 15 renowned wineries in its portfolio, such as Zuccardi, Cobos and Leyda, Grand Cru is synonymous with quality. The brand is recognized for delivering memorable experiences to both wine connoisseurs and newcomers.
