Francis Ford Coppola Winery is a true gem in the world of wine. The winery, which is located in the heart of California’s wine country, is a testament to the passion and dedication of its namesake, the renowned filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola. The winery produces a diverse range of wines, each one crafted with care and precision to suit a specific occasion.
One of the highlights of the winery is its Diamond Collection, which offers a range of rich and full-bodied wines that are perfect for special occasions. The sparkling Sofia wines are another standout, with their bright and effervescent bubbles that add a touch of glamour to any event.
But the real standout at Francis Ford Coppola Winery is its Francis Coppola Reserve wines. These limited-production wines are only available at the winery, making them a true treasure for wine connoisseurs. The grapes for these wines are carefully selected, and the winemaking process is closely monitored to ensure the highest quality possible. The result is a range of wines that are truly exceptional, with complex flavors, a perfect balance of acidity and sweetness, and a long, smooth finish.
In addition to its wines, the Francis Ford Coppola Winery is also a fantastic place to visit. The winery features a stunning tasting room, a pool, a movie theater, and even a restaurant, all of which are surrounded by beautiful gardens and vineyards. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate about the wines they pour, making it a fantastic place for wine lovers to spend a day.
The Tasting Experience
The tasting experience at Francis Ford Coppola Winery is truly unique and unforgettable. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by the friendly staff and led to a cozy and intimate seating area, where you can sit back and enjoy the sweeping views of the gardens and vineyards of Alexander Valley.
During the tasting, you will have the opportunity to sample a range of the winery’s award-winning wines, which are expertly crafted and thoughtfully selected to offer a diverse range of flavors and styles. The staff will be on hand to guide you through the tasting and answer any questions you may have, providing insight into the winemaking process and the history of the winery.
The seated tasting is designed to be a safe and relaxing experience, and the winery has taken all necessary precautions to ensure the health and safety of its guests. You can sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning views while sipping on some of the finest wines in the world.
For larger parties and groups, the winery is happy to accommodate your visit, but it is recommended to make a reservation in advance to ensure availability. The staff at Francis Ford Coppola Winery is committed to providing an exceptional tasting experience, and they will work with you to create a tailored experience that meets the needs of your group. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or a casual sipper, the tasting experience at Francis Ford Coppola Winery is sure to leave you with lasting memories and a newfound appreciation for wine.
The Seating Experience
The seating experience at Francis Ford Coppola Winery is a luxurious and intimate affair, designed to allow you to savor some of the finest wines in the world in a serene and picturesque setting.
The seating area is set amidst the beautiful gardens and vineyards of Alexander Valley, offering sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. You will be able to enjoy a seated tasting of award-winning, limited-production wines sourced from the finest vineyard sites throughout Sonoma County.
The tastings are held Thursday through Monday from 11 am to 5 pm, and reservations are highly recommended to ensure availability. The tastings cost $40 for a flight, but wine family members, Delicato’s Vino della Famiglia Wine Club Members, and Black Stallion Estate Winery Club Members can enjoy the experience for $20. If you purchase four bottles, your tasting fee will be waived. The estimated duration of the tasting is 45 minutes.
In case of inclement weather, the tasting experience will be hosted indoors, but the luxurious and intimate atmosphere will remain unchanged. The staff will be on hand to guide you through the tasting and answer any questions you may have, providing expert insights into the winemaking process and the history of the winery.
For larger parties and groups, the winery is happy to accommodate your visit, but it is recommended to make a reservation in advance to ensure availability. The staff at Francis Ford Coppola Winery is committed to providing a truly exceptional seating experience, and they will work with you to create a tailored experience that meets the needs of your group. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply seeking a relaxing and luxurious experience, the seating experience at Francis Ford Coppola Winery is sure to exceed your expectations.
The Tasting Bar
The tasting bar experience at Francis Ford Coppola Winery offers a relaxed and informal setting for you to sample some of the finest wines in the world. You will have the opportunity to taste a selection of award-winning wines hailing from the vineyards of Sonoma County and California, each highlighting the unique character and flavor of the region.
The tasting bar is open Thursday through Monday from 11am to 4:30pm and offers a $25 flight, which is complimentary for Wine Family members. If you purchase four bottles, your tasting fee will be waived. The estimated duration of the experience is 30 minutes, and it is first come, first serve, with no reservations needed.
This is a great opportunity to sample a range of delicious wines, from crisp whites and fruity rosés to rich, full-bodied reds, in a casual and welcoming atmosphere. The knowledgeable staff will be on hand to answer any questions you may have and provide expert insights into the winemaking process and the history of the winery.
For larger parties and groups, the winery is happy to accommodate your visit, but it is recommended to make a reservation in advance to ensure availability. Whether you’re a wine aficionado or simply seeking a fun and relaxed experience, the tasting bar at Francis Ford Coppola Winery is sure to be a memorable one.
The Wine Club – Amici Mixed
UPDATE: May 14th, 2023
Picked up the Sofia Blanc De Blancs while I was in the area, here’s my review:
Sofia Blanc De Blancs
Sofia Blanc de Blancs is a sparkling wine produced by Francis Ford Coppola Winery. It is named after Sofia Coppola, the daughter of the famous filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola, who is also involved in the wine business.
Blanc de Blancs translates to “white from whites” in French, indicating that this sparkling wine is made exclusively from white grape varieties. In the case of Sofia Blanc de Blancs, the grapes used are primarily Chardonnay, which is known for its elegance and crispness.
Sofia Blanc de Blancs is crafted using the traditional method, also known as the méthode champenoise, which is the same method used to produce Champagne. This process involves a secondary fermentation that takes place in the bottle, resulting in characteristic bubbles and effervescence.
The wine is described as light, refreshing, and extra dry, which means it has a minimal amount of residual sugar. It offers flavors of tart apple, crisp pear, and citrus notes. It is known for its zesty acidity, which makes it a good pairing for seafood and other dishes.
Sofia Blanc de Blancs comes in a unique and elegant package. The bottle is a distinctive cylindrical shape with a label featuring the beautiful artwork of Sofia Coppola herself. It is often referred to as a wine that combines both style and substance.
Overall, Sofia Blanc de Blancs is a well-regarded sparkling wine that provides a delightful drinking experience, especially for those who appreciate dry and refreshing bubblies.
There are many levels of wine clubs you can select to fit your needs. They are shipped quarterly. Today, I will focus on Amici Mixed. This plan provides you with 4 bottles of mixed red and white wines. Usually 50/50 mix and this is what I got for my first shipment:
2019 Francis Coppola Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon
The 2019 Francis Coppola Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is a premium red wine from the renowned Napa Valley in California. This wine is made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, which were carefully selected from some of the most prestigious vineyards in the region.
The wine has a deep ruby color and offers rich aromas of blackberry, cassis, and vanilla, with subtle notes of oak and spice. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied with a complex mix of flavors including black cherry, plum, and chocolate, supported by firm tannins and a long, elegant finish. The wine was aged for 16 months in French oak barrels, adding depth and complexity to the wine.
This wine is best enjoyed after decanting for a few hours to allow the flavors to fully develop. It pairs well with hearty dishes such as grilled steak, roasted lamb, and braised short ribs. The 2019 Francis Coppola Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is a top-quality wine that showcases the exceptional winemaking skills of Francis Ford Coppola and his team.
2021 Director’s Cut Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast
The 2021 Director’s Cut Pinot Noir from Sonoma Coast is a red wine that showcases the unique terroir of this cool-climate region. The wine is crafted by Francis Ford Coppola Winery’s Director’s Cut series, which focuses on producing limited-production wines that reflect the winery’s commitment to quality and excellence.
The Pinot Noir grapes for this wine are carefully selected from vineyards in the Sonoma Coast appellation, known for its maritime influence and cool temperatures that allow for slow and even ripening of the grapes. The resulting wine is medium-bodied, with a bright ruby color and aromas of dark cherry, raspberry, and a hint of vanilla. On the palate, it has flavors of blackberry, cranberry, and baking spice, with a long and smooth finish.
The wine is aged in French oak barrels, adding subtle notes of toast and spice that complement the fruit flavors. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a range of dishes, including grilled salmon, roasted chicken, and mushroom risotto.
2021 Francis Coppola Reserve Viognier
The Francis Coppola Reserve Viognier is a white wine made from 100% Viognier grapes grown in the Russian River Valley in Sonoma County, California. It is a small-production, limited-release wine that is handcrafted with care and attention to detail.
The wine is fermented and aged in French oak barrels for added complexity, with 30% of the barrels being new each year. The result is a rich and full-bodied wine with a bouquet of ripe apricots, peaches, and honey, complemented by notes of vanilla and toasted oak.
On the palate, the wine is smooth and creamy, with a luscious texture and flavors of stone fruit, tropical fruit, and a hint of minerality. It has a well-balanced acidity, making it a great pairing for a variety of dishes, from seafood and chicken to spicy Asian and Middle Eastern cuisine.
The Virtual Tasting Experience (due to COVID)
The virtual tasting experience offered by Francis Ford Coppola Winery is a unique way to enjoy the winery’s extensive portfolio of award-winning wines from the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re looking to have a private tasting for your household or join friends and family for a Virtual Happy Hour, the winery can assist with creating a curated tasting package and experience for you to enjoy.
During the virtual tasting, you’ll have the opportunity to taste through a selection of the winery’s wines while learning about the history, stories, and winemaking philosophies behind each one. The virtual tasting is led by a knowledgeable host who will guide you through the tasting and answer any questions you may have.
For a fun and interactive experience, you can also participate in a virtual BINGO game while you’re tasting. The experience includes a set of digital Francis Ford Coppola Winery Bingo cards, and you’ll have the opportunity to play a friendly game of BINGO while you’re enjoying your wines.
To reserve your virtual tasting experience, simply send an email to VirtualTasting@FrancisFordCoppolaWinery.com with your name and phone number, and the winery will be in touch with wine packages and to coordinate all the details. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply looking for a fun and unique experience, the virtual tasting at Francis Ford Coppola Winery is sure to be a memorable one.
The Private Bocce Experience
The Wine and Bocce Private Experience is a unique offering from Francis Ford Coppola Winery that allows guests to enjoy a day of wine tasting and playing bocce with friends and family. This experience is available for parties of 8 to 24 guests, and reservations must be made in advance. The experience is offered at 11am, 1 pm, and 3 pm from Thursday to Monday.
The bocce experience is designed for wine lovers and sports enthusiasts, who are looking for a relaxed and fun-filled day surrounded by the vineyards and beautiful scenery of Alexander Valley. During the experience, guests will have the opportunity to taste award-winning wines from the extensive portfolio of Francis Ford Coppola Winery while engaging in a friendly game of bocce.
The cost of the Wine and Bocce Private Experience is $50 per person plus tax, and the tasting fee is waived with the purchase of four bottles. If you are interested in reserving your spot, you can reach out to the Guest Services team via email at GuestServices@FrancisFordCoppolaWinery.com or by calling (707) 857-1471. The winery has implemented COVID-19 safety guidelines for the comfort and safety of its guests, so be sure to review them prior to your visit.
Rustic Restaurant (inside the Winery)
Rustic Restaurant is a dining experience located at the Francis Ford Coppola Winery in Alexander Valley, California. It offers a unique blend of international cuisine and traditional Italian dishes, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from the property’s own organic herb and produce garden. The menu features family-style cooking, which encourages diners to enjoy dishes together and share in the experience of the meal. Rustic offers indoor and outdoor seating, with a beautiful terrace overlooking the picturesque Alexander Valley.
The San Valentino menu at Rustic was truly a memorable dining experience. From the moment we were seated, the ambiance of the restaurant with its views of the Alexander Valley was breathtaking. The service was excellent, with the staff being friendly and attentive throughout the meal.
The King Trumpet Mushroom Risotto was rich, creamy, and had an earthy flavor that was beautifully balanced with the mushrooms. The texture was perfect, with the rice being al dente, and the overall dish was extremely satisfying.
The Grilled Filet Mignon was cooked to perfection and was incredibly tender and juicy. The rich flavor of the steak was beautifully complemented by the creamy Crème Fraiche Mashed Potatoes, which had a smooth and velvety texture that was a great contrast to the meat.
Finally, the Dark Chocolate Butter Cake with Rocky Road Gelato and Prosecco Strawberry Puree was a true showstopper. The chocolate cake was moist and fluffy, and the rich chocolate flavor was balanced perfectly with the light and creamy gelato. The addition of the Prosecco Strawberry Puree added a lovely touch of sweetness and acidity to the dish, making it a perfect ending to the meal.
Overall, the San Valentino menu at Rustic was a delightful culinary journey, with each dish being expertly prepared and beautifully presented. The menu offered a fantastic selection of dishes that were both delicious and sophisticated, and the wine pairing was a great addition that really helped to bring out the flavors of each dish. We would highly recommend Rustic to anyone looking for a truly special dining experience.
Contact Information
300 Via Archimedes
Geyserville, CA 95441
(707) 857-1471
