Francis Ford Coppola, Cabernet Sauvignon Diamond 2020

Francis Ford Coppola Winery, founded by the iconic filmmaker, is renowned for producing bold, expressive wines that reflect the diversity of California’s terroirs. The Diamond Collection is crafted to highlight varietal purity, depth, and balance, making it one of the most recognisable ranges from the estate. This Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 is a rich and structured wine, showcasing classic dark fruit, smooth tannins, and well-integrated oak influence.

Sourced from vineyards across California, the grapes benefit from warm, sunny days that ensure full ripeness and cool evenings that preserve freshness. The varied soils, including gravel, clay, and loam, contribute to the wine’s complexity and structure. Aged in a mix of French and American oak, this Cabernet gains layers of vanilla, spice, and toasted notes that complement its deep fruit character.

Appearance: Deep ruby with a nearly opaque core and dark garnet reflections at the rim. The wine clings to the glass with slow-moving legs, hinting at its full-bodied nature and rich concentration. Its depth of colour suggests a bold, structured Cabernet with excellent ageing potential.

Aroma: Intense and layered, with ripe blackcurrant, blackberry, and dark cherry leading the way. Hints of vanilla, cedar, and tobacco emerge from the oak influence, while subtle notes of dark chocolate, black pepper, and dried herbs add complexity. A touch of graphite and earthiness rounds out the aromatic profile, giving it a refined yet powerful character.

Taste: Full-bodied and well-structured, with plush tannins supporting the rich core of dark fruit. Flavours of cassis, plum, and blueberry are balanced by savoury elements of cocoa, liquorice, and spice. The oak ageing adds layers of vanilla, toasted coconut, and a hint of smoke, enhancing the wine’s depth without overpowering the fruit. The acidity keeps the wine fresh, ensuring a well-balanced and lingering palate.

Finish: Long and persistent, with velvety tannins and a lingering blend of dark fruit, spice, and toasted oak. A subtle minerality adds finesse, while the final notes of mocha and black cherry leave a satisfying, structured impression.

Food Pairing: Grilled ribeye steak with a peppercorn sauce enhances the wine’s rich tannins and bold fruit, creating a classic Cabernet pairing. Aged cheddar with dried cranberries brings out the wine’s dark berry flavours while complementing its smooth, oaked finish