In 2006, Francis and Eleanor Coppola purchased what would eventually become known as Francis Ford Coppola Winery, marking their initial foray into Sonoma County winemaking. After an extensive two-year renovation that began in 2008, Francis reintroduced his eponymous winery in July 2010, which is one of the latest ventures from the five-time Academy Award-winning director, whose passion for wine, food and adventure is nowhere more evident than in this creative production – a winery resort located in the heart of Alexander Valley, California.
Among the many attractions at the property, Francis Ford Coppola Winery features wine tasting bars, two restaurants, a full bar, a swimming pool with European-style cabines, a movie gallery, a performing arts Pavilion and a park area with game tables and bocce courts.
At Francis Ford Coppola Winery, all of our planted acres are sustainably farmed and certified through the California Sustainable Winegrowing Program. Our vineyards use leading water conservation practices including aerial imagery, weather stations, soil monitoring probes, smart scheduling and drip irrigation. Every drop of water in the winery is used twice, being captured, cleaned and recycled for vineyard irrigation. Through our integrated pest management program, we promote the biodiversity of our vineyard with beneficial insects, soil fauna, bluebird boxes and owls that combat pests of grapevines. Soil erosion is prevented through the use of cover crops that also replenish essential nutrients back into the soil.
To further enhance our vineyards and reduce water, we partner with an innovative technology company called Terravion, a real-time aerial imagery service for agriculture. The weekly updates throughout the growing season deliver a birds-eye view of the vineyards in multiple wavelengths. Using this imagery, we’re able to manage vineyard activities, and better pinpoint which areas need irrigation enhancement so that we’re conserving more water.