Westhoff Pioneers ITA Red Blend *

February 19, 2026 (Napa Valley, CA) — Copper Cane Wines & Spirits is pleased to announce the Westhoff Pioneers Collection, an exclusive new line of historically-inspired red wine blends brought to the bottle by fifth-generation winemaker Joe Wagner. Inspired by his family’s storied heritage, which dates back to the 19^th Century in the French town of Westhoffen, the launch is a celebration of generations of grape growing, winemaking and the enduring spirit of his family’s ancestry.

Beginning in the 1850’s, Joe’s family emigrated to the US from parts of central Europe, bringing with them the knowledge of grape growing and winemaking that were passed down from generation to generation. The Westhoff Pioneers is a tribute to how these different cultures and skills blended together to create the beginning of the American wine industry. It honors people from every corner of the world who came to achieve their dreams in America with nothing more than a vision and strong work ethic. These trailblazing individuals were not afraid of losing… they were afraid of not trying.

Each bottle of Westhoff Pioneers tells the story of the melting pot of traditions that have shaped American winemaking and culture. The collection consists of three red blends, each honoring a different part of Joe’s roots, made with grapes grown in California coastal regions that naturally complement the inspiration behind the blends.

• The Westhoff Pioneers “ITA” is a mix of Sagratino, Teroldego, Nero D’Avola, and Negro Amaro that are grown in Santa Barbara County. The region’s long growing season and ocean-cooled afternoons allow the grapes to ripen fully while maintaining their natural acidity, mirroring the structure and vibrancy of Southern Italian reds. The Italian Blend includes flavors of plum, cocoa nibs, luxardo cherries, cassis, dried herbs, and blackberries. We suggest pairing with seared duck, pasta bolognese, or grilled chicken and roasted mushrooms.

“I’m immensely proud to be keeping my family history, and the history of American winemaking, alive through this collection,” says Joe Wagner, founder of Copper Cane Wine & Spirits. “I can’t think of a better time to share Westhoff Pioneers with the world than during the 250th anniversary of our country. These blends are inspired by generations of pioneering winemakers—people like my father, my grandfather, and countless others who traveled from around the world to help establish the California winemaking culture that we know today. Each bottle is an expression of those journeys, reflecting on a rich and diverse history while looking toward the future.”

Each Westhoff Pioneers bottle features a label made of historical newspaper clippings from its region of inspiration and a brief explanation of the intention of the blend and its varietals