The Francis Ford Coppola 2009 Chardonnay was produced using fruit sourced in Mendocino and Monterey. This offering is 100% Chardonnay. This selection didn’t undergo malolactic fermentation and also didn’t receive any oak treatment. The Coppola Chardonnay is a widely available wine that's finished in screw cap and has a suggested retail price of $11.
Golden delicious apple aromas are joined by nutmeg and clove on the bold, bright nose of this wine. Continued apple notes are prominent through the palate along with Bartlett and Asian pear flavors. Tropical fruits such as mango and papaya are present as well. Vanilla bean, white pepper and apple pie spices all emerge on the finish which has good length. This is a balanced, fruity bargain of a California Chardonnay. For right around $10 this represents a really nice value. It has plenty of varietal character and will pair well with a wide array of foods.
The Francis Ford Coppola 2009 Claret Cabernet Sauvignon was produced using fruit sourced in Napa, Sonoma and El Dorado. In addition to Cabernet Sauvignon (81%), Petit Verdot (9%), Malbec (5%), Merlot (3%), and Cabernet Franc (2%) are blended in as well. This wine was aged in French oak for 15 months. It’s available nationwide, finished with natural cork and has a suggested retail price of $20.
Cherry and blueberry aromas are joined by hints of toast and vanilla on the nose of this 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon. Blackberries, plum and black raspberries are all part of the palate along with a nice blast of spices and earth. Black tea, oodles of dark sweet chocolate and hints of sour black cherries all emerge on the finish. This Cabernet has soft tannins and good acidity. It’s a Cabernet that is aimed at early consumption; drink it over the next 2-4 years to take advantage of its fresh youthful flavors.
Both of these wines from the Coppola Winery are available nationwide at reasonable prices. They’re meant to be enjoyed as daily drinkers that one can afford regularly. They achieve their goal, and represent their individual varietals well in their respective categories.