Tasting - Francis Coppola Cabernet Sauvignon

Tasting - Francis Coppola Cabernet Sauvignon

Name: Francis Coppola Diamond Collection Claret Cabernet Sauvignon
Variety: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Region: Geyserville, California
Year: 2022
Price: $18

Critic Review: "This wine is vibrant, lively, with aromas of blackberry, olallieberry, citrus, bittersweet chocolate, toasty vanilla, and florals on the nose. The flavor on the palate are boysenberry, blueberry, pink grapefruit zest, chicory, espresso, and a velvety dry finish. Decant and pair with Wagyu Beef." (Tonya Pitts, Wine Enthusiast)

Wine Folly: Page 88 of the Wine Folly book dives into the characteristics of a Cabernet Sauvignon. The book describes it as having rich flavors of black cherry, currant, cedar and baking spice. I definitely got those notes of dark fruit from this wine but not so much cedar and baking spice. The book also noted that you should decant for 60 plus minutes, I decanted for around 30 minutes and will decant for longer next time. The book also says a Cabernet Sauvignon should be paired with rich grilled meats and dishes with high flavor. I'll be sure to grab a bottle next time I grill up a nice steak. 

My Review: Fabulous! On the nose I got notes of blueberries and cherries and noticed this particular bottle had quite long legs while swirling it around. On the palette I got sweet cherries and dark fruit, however, this wine also had a little dryness to it. I found it struck a good balance between those wonderful sweet fruit notes while not being to overly sweet. I had this wine alongside dinner which was homemade meatballs on a bed of bucatini with a homemade red sauce on top. I found the subtle sweetness of this wine helped to balance the spice from the meatballs and the rich acidic flavors of the sauce. Overall, I really enjoyed this bottle and would definitely pick it up again.