Russian River: Copain

From J Vineyards and Winery, we head South on Eastside road to Copain!

Copain

Situated on top of a hill, their tasting room was elegant and modern. It was not busy when we were there, with only one other couple. The room was quiet and could use some music to lighten up the otherwise dim, almost somber room.

The winemaker, Wells Guthrie, was french trained (Rhone) but creates his wines with a firm Californian roots. 


Copain Chardonnay "Tous Ensemble" Anderson Valley 2010
This was fermented in stainless steel to achieve the Burgundy style of Chardonnay, crisp and not oaky. Indeed, there was more crisp green apple and wonderful minerality to this wine with a good balance of acidity. Great job overall although it had less depth than the oaky buttery Californian Chardonnay (especially the Jewell Ranch from J!). OOOo

Copain P2 Anderson Valley 2011
This was an interesting blend of Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris. Light in body, this had notes of raspberry, although it was more spice than fruit. Good crisp acid but it just did not fit very well with me. OOo

Copain Les Voisin Pinot Noir Anderson Valley 2009
Les Voisins meaning the neighbours, since these are sourced from neighboring vineyards. This was a light-bodied standard Pinot with a typical cabbage vegetal smell. It had good tannins and acid that reminds me of red apple cider vinegar (?) along with spices that lingers. I did not think it was worth $40. OOo

Copain Les Voisins Syrah Yorkville highland 2009
Another from the Les Voisin series, this had a great juicy nose with hints of spice! With plenty of dark cherry fruit and spices, this had strong obvious tannins which probably needs some time to soften a little.  OOO

Copain Eagle point ranch Syrah 2007
Sourced from Mendocino County, this had a great fruity nose with hints of spice. Notes of dark chocolate, tobacco and black cherries. This was very tannic with plenty of black pepper spice and hint of oak. $50 OOOo

The guy who was pouring advice that we take a walk to enjoy the view along with the wines and so we did! Lovely place indeed!

Adirondacks at Copain

Next up, DeLoach!