Inglenook Winery, located in Rutherford, California, is now owned by Francis and Eleanor Coppola. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of visiting Inglenook Winery and experiencing the passion and dedication that the Coppolas have for the winery and its history.
Francis and Eleanor Coppola acquired the Inglenook trademark in 2011, and with it, they decided to rename the winery to Inglenook. This decision was a significant one, as it not only honored the rich history of the winery but also solidified the Coppolas' commitment to producing exceptional wines.
One of the reasons I admire the Coppolas' ownership of Inglenook Winery is their deep respect for the winery's heritage. Inglenook has a storied past, dating back to 1879 when Gustave Niebaum, a Finnish sea captain, established the winery. Over the years, Inglenook became known for its high-quality wines and innovative winemaking techniques.
When the Coppolas took over Inglenook, they made it their mission to restore the winery to its former glory. They invested in extensive vineyard restoration, replanting many of the vines to ensure the highest quality grapes. They also renovated the winery, preserving its historic charm while incorporating modern winemaking practices.
During my visit to Inglenook Winery, I was struck by the sense of history that permeates every aspect of the property. From the beautifully preserved chateau-style winery building to the meticulously maintained vineyards, it is evident that the Coppolas have a deep appreciation for Inglenook's legacy.
But it's not just about preserving the past at Inglenook Winery. The Coppolas have also implemented innovative winemaking practices to produce exceptional wines. They have a talented winemaking team led by Philippe Bascaules, formerly of Château Margaux in Bordeaux. Together, they strive to craft wines that showcase the unique terroir of the Napa Valley.
The commitment to excellence is evident in every bottle of Inglenook wine. During my tasting experience, I was blown away by the depth and complexity of the wines. From their flagship Rubicon blend to their Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay offerings, each wine showcased the meticulous attention to detail that goes into every step of the winemaking process.
In addition to their dedication to winemaking, the Coppolas have also made Inglenook Winery a destination for wine lovers. The winery offers a range of experiences, from tastings and tours to private events in their beautiful estate. It's clear that the Coppolas want visitors to not only enjoy their wines but also to immerse themselves in the history and beauty of the winery.
Inglenook Winery is now owned by Francis and Eleanor Coppola. Their ownership has brought a renewed sense of passion and commitment to this historic winery. From their investment in vineyard restoration to their innovative winemaking practices, the Coppolas have elevated Inglenook to new heights. As a sommelier and brewer, I am grateful for their dedication to producing exceptional wines and preserving the legacy of Inglenook Winery.