2019 Francis Ford Coppola Archimedes

The Archimedes is one of the most prestigious wines in the Francis Ford Coppola Winery collection. It's a powerful yet elegant red wine from Alexander Valley in Sonoma, crafted to showcase the richness of Cabernet Sauvignon combined with the depth of carefully selected, high-altitude parcels. The style is intense, layered, and refined, ideal for lovers of full-bodied California red wines.

Origin, grapes and vinification

The wine is composed primarily of Cabernet Sauvignon, supplemented with small percentages of Malbec and Petit Verdot to add structure and aromatic depth. The vineyards are situated on mountain slopes where warm days alternate with cool nights, giving the grapes a perfect balance of concentration and freshness. After fermentation, Archimedes is aged for a long time in French oak barrels, a combination of new and used wood, which gives the wine strength without losing its fruit.

The result is a cuvée with a deep, almost inky color. The nose reveals aromas of cassis, black cherry, and plum, followed by cedar, dark chocolate, graphite, and a hint of sweet spice. The nose is rich and intense yet remains refined. The palate perfectly complements this. The wine is full-bodied and concentrated, with firm yet polished tannins that support the structure without becoming harsh. The dark fruit is supported by subtle notes of cocoa, tobacco, and a light spice. The finish is long and harmonious.

Drinking window and serving tips

The Archimedes is already very expressive when young but clearly has the potential to develop further. The ideal drinking window is between now and ten to twelve years after the vintage. Due to the firm tannins and concentration, it's recommended to decant the wine for half an hour when opened young. Serve it at around seventeen to eighteen degrees Celsius to maintain a good balance of fruit and oak notes.

Wine and food

This wine pairs beautifully with rich and robust dishes. Think grilled ribeye, rack of lamb, slow-cooked beef, or game. It also pairs perfectly with mushrooms, roasted vegetables, or aged hard cheeses. Its robust character makes it suitable for both classic meat dishes and more modern culinary interpretations.