A visit to Francis Ford Coppola Winery in the Sonoma County Wine Country town of Geyserville is always a treat. Pure Luxury was treated to a very special winemaker dinner at the winery’s restaurant, Rustic: Francis’s Favorites, with winemaker Tondi Bolkan.
A View of the Vineyards from Our Seat on the Patio at Rustic, Francis’s Favorites
Seated at a table with a sweeping view of the vineyards, we began the evening with Sofia Blanc de Blancs. Inside the lovely packaging was a flavorful, vibrant blend of Pinot Blanc, Muscat, and Riesling waiting to be poured.
The First Course was a rich, Lobster Mushroom Risotto paired with Francis Coppola “Reserve” Chardonnay. The Reserve Chardonnay can only be purchased at the winery. The creamy texture of this wine made for an absolutely decadent pairing.
Director’s Cut Paired with a Succulent, Flavorful Dish
For our Second Course, we enjoyed a combination of Fig, Gorgonzola Dolce, Hazelnut, and Wild Arugula paired with Francis Coppola “Director’s Cut” Pinot Noir. This limited-production Pinot Noir uses grapes grown exclusively in Sonoma County’s Russian River Valley. Only this flavorful Pinot Noir could be paired perfectly with all of the flavors to be found on the plate.
Outstanding Homemade Rigatoni & Meatballs
The Third Course, a classic comfort food dish of Rigatoni and Meatballs, was paired with Francis Coppola “Director’s Cut” Cinema. This spicy, lush, full-bodied blend of Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cab Franc, and Petite Sirah was the optimal pairing complimenting the perfectly cooked pasta, homemade sauce, and savory meatballs.
Archimedes Received 94 points from Wine Enthusiast
Next was the Fourth Course, Parilla Grilled New York Strip paired with Francis Coppola “Archimedes” Cabernet. “Archimedes” Cabernet received 94 points from Wine Enthusiast and is Francis Ford Coppola Winery’s flagship wine. This luxurious wine was an impeccable pairing to the New York Strip.
The Ultimate Dessert
With heavy hearts, and full stomachs, we welcomed the Dessert Course consisting of Italia’s Cream Puff paired with Francis Coppola “Reserve” Petite Sirah Dessert Wine. The cream puff was sweet perfection as was the Dessert Wine.
This was an amazing evening of outstanding, food, wine, and company.
Need suggestions for winemaker dinners for you to attend? Contact Pure Luxury.
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