Under the Radar, Over the Top: Napa’s Next Rising Star.

Copper Bear Winery is the passion project of winemaker Jesse Giacomelli, operating in Napa Valley as an ultra-small-production brand rooted in artistry and terroir.  Jesse has worked along side prominent winemakers—including Benoit Touquette and Aaron Pott—before becoming winemaker for Beckstoffer Vineyards in Rutherford. This experience immersed him in some of Napa’s most famed crus and terroirs, knowledge he now channels into his own brand.

At Copper Bear, Jesse emphasizes on crafting elegant, terroir-driven wines that highlight Napa’s historic vineyards—especially Beckstoffer’s iconic properties like Georges III in Rutherford, Missouri Hopper in Oakville, and a standout mountain-Sourced Cabernet from Stagecoach on Pritchard Hill. In 2023, he also produced the very first proprietary Cabernet Sauvignon vineyard blend to bear the Beckstoffer name.

The new 2023 releases are sensational, and reflect Jesse’s focused philosophy: he employs moderate new French oak, keeps alcohol and acidity balanced, and extracts tannins with a gentle hand to achieve a refined mouthfeel. The result is a bottle that is lush and approachable in youth, yet capable of graceful ageing. While distribution remains exclusive—the wines are available through a twice-yearly release via mailing list only, with spring offerings featuring sparkling and rosé, and fall releases showcasing vineyard-designate reds.

Copper Bear is undoubtedly a winery to watch, emerging as one of the most compelling new projects in Napa Valley. With a meticulous, small-lot approach and access to some of the region’s most storied vineyard sites, the wines offer a rare combination of precision, elegance, and authenticity. Each release reflects a deep respect for terroir and a commitment to crafting wines that are both expressive in their youth and capable of graceful aging. As Copper Bear continues to expand its portfolio, it has become increasingly evident that the winery represents more than just exceptional winemaking—it stands as a symbol of a new era in Napa Valley, where tradition and innovation are seamlessly woven together in every bottle.

To find out more about Copper Bear visit their website.