Since its inception, the Francis Coppola Diamond Collection has been an expansive endeavor to create consistently high-quality wines that are pure expressions of each varietal. We seek out vineyard sites across California, which ensure superior grapes year-after-year, and we employ precise winemaking techniques to showcase the character of our fruit. This enterprise has become a true labor of love. We invite youto share it with us.    

Winemaker’s Notes

Our Pinot Noir grapes are harvested in the early morning hours, crushed, and then cold soaked for 48 hours to elicit color and aromas. During fermentation, the grapes are punched down four times a day to intensify flavors and extract tannin. Then, the wine is aged in small French oak barrels. Monterey experienced an outstanding 2007 season. Budbreak occurred later than normal due to a cold winter; however, in spite of the chilly temperatures there waslittle precipitation. As a result, the vines were not vigorous and produced fewer and smaller fruit clusters. The benefit of having reduced amounts of fruit is that the grapes become tremendously concentrated. In addition to having well-endowed flavor, the fruit is nicely balanced by a crisp acidity. Our 2007 Pinot Noir is not only dark and bigger bodied, it displays a rich perfume and delivers long, intense flavors. A good match for beef bourguignon, lamb chops or wild mushroom ravioli.