Copper Bear Wines is the creative endeavor of Jesse Giacomelli, winemaker for Beckstoffer Vineyards in Rutherford, Napa Valley. With an annual production of fewer than 500 cases, Copper Bear is dedicated to crafting small-lot, elegant wines that showcase Napa Valley’s most historic vineyards, including the renowned Beckstoffer Georges III and Missouri Hopper vineyards.
Before founding Copper Bear, Jesse honed his skills as a winemaker at a small boutique winery in Alexander Valley. This experience led to a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to work as Winemaker for Andy Beckstoffer of Beckstoffer Vineyards. Over the next several years, Jesse immersed himself in understanding Beckstoffer’s farming techniques, soil types, and terroir, all while refining his winemaking craft in the heart of Napa Valley. The natural next step was to create his own small-production brand, and so, Copper Bear Wines was born.
Jesse's winemaking style is centered on crafting wines that emphasize balance and finesse, allowing the unique qualities of each vineyard to shine through. His approach involves the moderate use of new French oak, balanced levels of alcohol and acidity, and gentle tannin extraction to achieve softness and length on the palate. This technique leads to elegant, refined wines that highlight the character and complexity of the exceptional vineyards they come from.
Products:
