Everyone has heard the saying “Be careful what you wish for, because you just might get it.” This is what happened to Jack Cakebread in 1972 when he casually mentioned to a friend that he would love to own a vineyard one day. The next day he was offered a vineyard, took the opportunity, and built a world-renowned winery that is the epitome of California wine country. Back then, when California was simply known for sun, surf and hippies, the Cakebreads made it their goal to share their philosophy of good friends, good food and good wine with the world. By 1984, the family utilized the area’s best resources, Mondavi enologist Larry Wara, award-winning architect William Turnbull, and state-of-the-art technology to increase production enough to start exporting their wines to Canada, United Kingdom, Singapore, and Hong Kong, cementing Cakebread’s reputation as the go-to wine for those looking to impress.

After a large remodel, the Cakebreads’ dream of combining food and wine was realized when they built a state-of-the-art kitchen and hired Chef Jim May, entertaining guests and colleagues in the finest California fashion. The Cakebread vision of California wine country continues to evolve as it hosts yearly seminars and workshops. Both Jack and his sons have held high standings in the community, including acting as President of the Board of Napa Valley Vintners Association.

At Nino’s, we carry many of the Cakebread wines, including the Sauvignon Blanc, Zinfandel, and Pinot Noir. The Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon are what they are best known for, and Nino’s is proud to have an amazing deal on both! Here are my reviews on each:

Cakebread Cellars Chardonnay, Napa Valley 2012 –

Bright in color, the nose expresses green tree fruits and a waft of spice.  On the palate, there’s poached pear, guava, melon and a hint of cooked citrus peel. The texture is silky, without being oily or heavy, and the finish is crisp and lasting.

Cakebread Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley 2010 –

This selection features a dark purple/garnet color, with black violets, cinnamon, and blackberry reduction on the nose.  Blackberry, boysenberry, prune, and a nuance of sage are layered throughout.  This is well-structured and complex, with cacao and spice on the finish and fine, integrated tannins.

With $10 dollars off on the Chardonnay at $34.99 and a whopping $20 dollars off on the Cabernet Sauvignon at $64.99, these wines are the perfect gift for a loved one or yourself!  Quantities are very limited, so don’t miss out on this amazing deal!

Enjoy!

      Jennifer Laurie