Francis Ford Coppola, Zinfandel Diamond 2021

Francis Ford Coppola Winery, founded by the legendary filmmaker, is known for producing bold, expressive wines that reflect the rich diversity of California’s wine regions. The Diamond Collection is one of the estate’s signature ranges, crafted to showcase vibrant fruit and smooth textures. This Zinfandel 2021 is a classic Californian expression, balancing ripe, jammy fruit with spice, structure, and depth.

Sourced from vineyards across Napa Valley and surrounding regions, the grapes benefit from warm, sunny days and cool evening breezes, which allow for full ripening while maintaining freshness. The well-draining volcanic and gravelly soils contribute to the wine’s concentration and complexity. Aged in a combination of French and American oak, this Zinfandel gains layers of vanilla, spice, and toasted notes that complement its lush fruit character.

Appearance: Deep ruby with purple highlights, showing excellent clarity and a rich, almost inky core. The wine coats the glass with thick, slow-moving legs, hinting at its full body and generous alcohol content. The colour intensity suggests ripe fruit concentration and careful oak ageing, while the vibrant rim reflects its youthful energy.

Aroma: Bold and enticing, with ripe blackberry, raspberry jam, and black cherry at the forefront. Layers of vanilla, cinnamon, and clove from oak ageing add warmth, while subtle hints of black pepper, dried herbs, and a touch of mocha provide complexity. As the wine opens, a delicate smoky note and a hint of dark chocolate emerge, adding further depth.

Taste: Full-bodied and fruit-forward, bursting with rich flavours of dark berries, plum, and fig. The mid-palate brings notes of dark chocolate, liquorice, and sweet baking spices, balanced by well-integrated tannins and a smooth, rounded texture. A touch of toasted oak enhances the wine’s depth, while lively acidity keeps it fresh and engaging. The structure is bold yet refined, making it both powerful and approachable.

Finish: Long and lingering, with lingering notes of ripe black fruit, spice, and a touch of smoky vanilla. The structured yet velvety tannins provide a satisfying balance between power and elegance. A faint echo of black pepper and cedar adds a final savoury touch, making it a compelling wine to sip slowly.

Food Pairing: Slow-cooked barbecue ribs with a smoky glaze highlight the wine’s bold fruit and spice, creating a rich and indulgent pairing. Aged Gouda with dried figs enhances the wine’s jammy fruit and toasty oak character, making for a beautifully layered experience.