Back home, Francis Ford Coppola is known only as "Frank". Frank's wine has played a large part in our family gatherings ever since my father, not much of a drinker, put away quite a bit of Frank, and then proceeded to give an oral dissertation on the advantages of diversification in business. As Dad saw it, if Coppola had a bad vintage, he could just go out and make another movie, and if that movie bombed, he could just make more wine. It was quite entertaining, to the point of having Frank as a required part of every family meal.
Coppola's estate, Niebaum-Coppola, once belonged to a Finnish sea captain, Gustave Niebaum, who founded Inglenook Vineyards. Coppola and his wife bought the property in the 70's. In the 90's they purchased the surrounding vineyards, as well as the original Inglenook Winery. The estate is best regarded for it's Rubicon Series, a higher end, limited run wine. To "pay the bills", they put out various varietals under various different Coppola labels - Diamond Collection, Director's Cut, Rosso and Bianco, etc.
Coppola's Rosso Shiraz 2004 ($) was opened for this tasting, and while it won't blow your mind, it's a good drinker, especially at the price. It's soft and supple with a taste of berry jam with mild tannins. File this one under Art Opening Wines
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