Traveling north on US 101 towards Geyserville, you might miss the turnoff to Francis Ford Coppola Winery. But be sure you don’t. This spot is a wonderland that will satisfy those who love wine, food, and movie memorabilia with sides of utter relaxation for a family of all ages. A few months ago, I visited this intriguing winery for a comprehensive, guided tour and their delicious Wine and Cheese Pairing experience. What I discovered was a place to which I’ll return as soon as possible. Bonus? My family will love it, too.
Does the name Francis Ford Coppola ring a bell? Of course it does. And the film memorabilia that you’ll see during the tour will harken even more memories of your favorite flicks. From Apocalypse Now, Bram Stoker’s Dracula, The Godfather Trilogy, Tucker: The Man and His Dream, One from the Heart and Marie Antoinette to his plethora of awards, the guided tour is a movie lovers dream.
The tour not only includes behind-the-scenes tidbits about the film collection, but a walk-around of the winery’s property and a glimpse into the bottling line. (Trust me, you’ll recognize some of your favorite wines being bottled if you come at the right time!) Found in the middle of the winery’s park area are two swimming pools, plenty of chaise lounge chairs, private cabanas, a pool café and vineyard views. Open during the summer, why not plan a romantic or family vacation to Sonoma and include an afternoon in the sunshine with plenty of food and wine? Alert! You may find me here in the heat of August!
And oh yes, food and wine play starring roles, too. Upon entering the main building is Rustic, a restaurant boasting indoor or outdoor dining. As expected, family style cooking of traditional Italian dishes as well as international fare with fresh ingredients from the property’s organic gardens are on the menu. Nonna would be quite proud! But that’s not all. Stop for a drink at the Tasting Bar where wine flights are offered from Thursday-Monday 11am-5pm – no reservations required. To be honest, the décor reminded me of the warmth of Italy and its people.
After our guided tour, the Wine and Cheese Experience was exceptional. My +1 and I settled in to the lounge designated for wine club members and our views of the pool area and outside terrace were lovely. Four winery-exclusive wines were poured and served with Petite Crème Brie from Marin French Cheese Company and generous servings of lip-smacking house-made condiments. So, what was on the menu?
2023 The Wines of Francis Coppola Vermentino, a racy, high acid wine, was poured to complement the rich and creamy brie with lemon ginger marmalade. The tart flavors of the lemon and snappy profile of the ginger were fascinating elements that contrasted with the bright aromas and acidity of the mineral-driven Vermentino.
Savory apple butter on brie was paired with 2021 Francis Coppola Reserve Chardonnay boasting influences of French oak aging. This classic pairing was mouthwatering as it was savory. Rich citrus, subtle spice and oak aromas and flavors in the Chardonnay from Dutton Ranch in the Russian River Valley were lush with the silky, golden apple notes in the butter.
Ahhh, 2022 Francis Coppola Reserve Pinot Noir was brilliant sipped with tart dried cherry compote atop the brie. Bright cherry notes in the compote and vibrant acidity, black cherry, plum, mocha and baking spice flavors in the Pinot Noir were exceptional.
Last but not least, sweet and savory fig and olive spread was perfection on a slice of brie enjoyed with 2021 Eleanor, a complex blend of Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Verdot, and Petite Sirah aged in French oak. Rich and full bodied with notes of mocha, tobacco, chocolate, almonds, cloves, currants, and black cherry, the wine complemented the sweetness of the fig and herbal profile of the olive spread. Hello, Nirvana!
“When we began to develop the idea for this winery, we wanted it to be a wonderland…a place to celebrate the love of life.” Francis Ford Coppola
Find out for yourself. Check out the winery’s website here and plan your visit that must include the Wine and Cheese Experience. I’ll definitely return!
Cheers! ~ Cindy
For more Grape Experiences, your free infographic “4 Keys to a Stellar Wine Pick” and a coupon code towards your purchase of my online course “Discover the Essentials of Wine (and choose it like a pro!)” click here.
You’ll also have complimentary access to my virtual wine exploration webinars. The next webinar will be about the food and wine of Etna DOC in Sicily on March 19. Register here.
