Rubicon (1999)

About this wine

The 1999 Rubicon from Niebaum-Coppola is a full-bodied red wine that showcases the depth and complexity of Napa Valley's Rutherford region. This blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec offers a harmonious balance of flavors. On the nose, it presents aromas of ripe blackberries, cassis, and a hint of tobacco. The palate reveals layers of dark fruit, complemented by subtle notes of vanilla and spice, leading to a long, smooth finish. This vintage reflects the rich winemaking heritage of the Inglenook estate, originally established in 1879 by Finnish sea captain Gustave Niebaum.

About the grape

The 1999 Niebaum-Coppola Rubicon is crafted from a blend of traditional Bordeaux grape varieties, each contributing unique characteristics to the wine. Cabernet Sauvignon, the dominant grape, is renowned for its deep color and robust tannins, providing structure and aging potential. Merlot adds softness and ripe fruit flavors, balancing the intensity of Cabernet Sauvignon. Cabernet Franc introduces aromatic complexity with notes of herbs and spice. Petit Verdot contributes deep color and floral aromas, while Malbec imparts rich fruit flavors and a velvety texture. These varietals are cultivated in the Rutherford region of Napa Valley, an area celebrated for its ideal climate and soil conditions that enhance the quality of these grapes.

Quick facts

• 🍇 The Rubicon Niebaum-Coppola 1999 is a blend of five Bordeaux grape varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec.
• 🏰 The winery, originally founded in 1879 by Finnish sea captain Gustave Niebaum, has undergone several name changes, including Niebaum-Coppola Estate Winery and Rubicon Estate Winery, before returning to its historic name, Inglenook, in 2011.
• 🎬 Francis Ford Coppola, the renowned film director, purchased the estate in 1975 and has been instrumental in restoring its legacy as a producer of premium wines.
• 🌄 The estate's vineyards are located in the Rutherford AVA of Napa Valley, an area celebrated for producing high-quality Cabernet Sauvignon wines.
• 🍷 The 1999 vintage of Rubicon is noted for its rich, complex flavors and has been praised by wine enthusiasts for its aging potential.

Palate profile

Producer

Niebaum-Coppola Winery, now known as Inglenook, was founded in 1879 by Finnish sea captain Gustave Niebaum in Rutherford, California. Niebaum aimed to produce wines that could rival Europe's finest, and his estate became renowned for its quality, winning gold medals at the 1889 Paris World's Fair. In 1975, filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola purchased a portion of the original estate, using proceeds from "The Godfather," and began restoring its historic vineyards and chateau. By 1995, Coppola had reunited the entire property, and in 2011, he restored its original name, Inglenook, reflecting his commitment to preserving its legacy.