Copious Philosophy

Winemaking is first an Art and second, a Science. It is, after all, our intuition that guides us and experience that trains our perceptions. The only purpose of scientific analysis in winemaking is to support the advancement and artistic endeavor of the winemaker and to maintain the stability of the art which is the wine. Each winemaker must apply the tools of science but it is chiefly by instinct and through the power of the senses that wines are polished, prepared for consumption…and deemed “good”.

I have been a professional winemaker for 10 years, a relatively small span of time considering the full history of the art. In that time I have gained the intuitive value that leads to the crafting of excellence. The quality of the grape is every bit as important as the hands on skill and treatment of the wine during its long journey through aging and processing in the cellar. Modern winemaking has given us the tools to greatly enhance our abilities and provide us with an edge. This is one reason why wines from California have gained so much international attention and are currently considered to be the best in the world.

Having cut my teeth, so to speak, at my previous winery located on top of Mount Aukum in the Sierra Foothills I have decided to evolve my pursuit of excellence by returning to the California Coastal Appellations where the dynamic of viticulture is the most expressive in the world. While this move is a return to where I began the craft I am taking with me the skills that I spent years honing on that dusty mountain top winery that once had all the wind in its sail. I have been fortunate given the experience of creating a winery from the ground up, marketing it, and rendering over 300 award winning wines including the highest honors in major wine competitions. So it is with great experience and enthusiasm that Copious Winery is born. My focus is simple; making great wines using modern winemaking techniques, staying true to traditional wine styles, and using grapes from only the finest vineyards in California.

Join me at Copious Winery or on my blog at lancecampbellwines.com where I will explore the Philosophy of Winemaking in a more detailed and interactive format.

In Vino Veritas,

Lance Campbell, Winemaker at Copious Winery, Santa Cruz California