Cakebread Cellars Sauvignon Blanc 2021

Region and Vineyards

The 2021 Sauvignon Blanc from Cakebread Cellars is sourced from some of the top vineyards throughout Napa Valley, including estate ranches in Carneros, Suscol Springs, Rutherford, and Calistoga. The cooler southern part of the valley provides grapes with bright citrus characters, flinty minerality, and balanced acidity, while the warmer northern regions contribute tropical notes to the final wine.

The vintage was characterized by low yields but exceptionally high quality. A dry winter followed by a warm spring and summer led to an early harvest, with grapes ripening to perfection, resulting in complex and bright wines.

Winemaking

The grapes for the Sauvignon Blanc were harvested in separate blocks based on their ripening and the perfect sugar-acidity ratio in each vineyard. Harvesting took place at night to preserve freshness and varietal purity. The grapes were pressed whole cluster in an anaerobic environment to maintain the utmost freshness and varietal purity in the finished wines.

Fermentation occurred primarily in stainless steel tanks (96%) to preserve the bright, zesty characteristics of Sauvignon Blanc, with a small portion (4%) fermented in concrete eggs to soften the acidity. After fermentation, the wine was aged briefly in neutral French oak and concrete eggs to maximize complexity before bottling.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Pale straw.
• Aroma: Fresh and sweet citrus, grapefruit, and melon, with complex notes of green pear, freshly cut hay, and stony minerality.
• Palate: Light-bodied and elegant, with vibrant flavors of ripe melon, grapefruit, and citrus zest, and a smooth, refreshing finish.

Did you know?

Cakebread Cellars has been a staple in Napa Valley since its founding in 1973 by Jack and Dolores Cakebread. The winery is renowned for its commitment to quality and sustainability, and its Sauvignon Blanc is a testament to their dedication to producing exceptional wines that reflect the unique terroir of Napa Valley.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Fresh Seafood: The bright acidity and citrus flavors of the wine complement the delicate flavors of fresh seafood, such as oysters or shrimp ceviche.
• Goat Cheese Salad: The wine’s crispness and minerality pair beautifully with the tangy and creamy textures of a goat cheese salad.
• Grilled Vegetables: The vibrant fruit flavors and refreshing finish enhance the smoky and savory notes of grilled vegetables.
• Lemon Herb Chicken: The citrus zest and acidity of the wine provide a perfect balance to the rich and herbaceous flavors of lemon herb chicken.

History of Cakebread Cellars Estate

Cakebread Cellars was founded in 1973 by Jack and Dolores Cakebread. The journey began when Jack, who was originally a photographer, visited Napa Valley for a photo shoot and ended up buying a property in Rutherford. This spontaneous purchase marked the beginning of their venture into winemaking. Over the years, the Cakebread family has transformed the estate into one of Napa Valley’s most respected wineries.

Jack and Dolores’ sons, Dennis and Bruce, have continued the family tradition, with Bruce serving as the winemaker for many years. The winery's philosophy is centered on producing quality wines through meticulous vineyard management and innovative winemaking techniques. The Cakebread family has been dedicated to sustainability, implementing practices that protect the environment and enhance the quality of their wines​​​​.

Region and Vineyards

Cakebread Cellars is located in Rutherford, a prime sub-region within Napa Valley. The region is known for its well-drained alluvial soils and favorable climate, which contribute to the production of high-quality grapes. The vineyards benefit from a mix of warm days and cool nights, ideal for growing varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay.

The estate spans 243 hectares across 16 vineyards in Napa Valley, each offering unique soil compositions and microclimates. These diverse sites allow Cakebread Cellars to craft wines that express the distinct characteristics of their terroir. The vineyards are meticulously managed to ensure the health of the vines and the quality of the fruit, employing sustainable farming practices to preserve the land for future generations​​​​.

Wine Range

Cakebread Cellars produces a wide range of wines, each reflecting the unique terroir of Napa Valley:

• Cakebread Cabernet Sauvignon: Known for its bold fruit flavors, balanced tannins, and rich texture.
• Cakebread Sauvignon Blanc: Praised for its crisp acidity, vibrant fruit, and refreshing finish.
• Cakebread Chardonnay: Offers a balance of fruit and oak, with a creamy texture and complex flavors.
• Cakebread Merlot: Features plush fruit, smooth tannins, and a long finish.
• Cakebread Pinot Noir: Delivers elegant fruit, silky tannins, and subtle complexity.

Did you know?

Jack Cakebread initially visited Napa Valley not to buy a vineyard, but to photograph it. His spontaneous decision to purchase a property in Rutherford during a photo shoot led to the establishment of Cakebread Cellars, which has since grown into one of the most respected names in American wine​​​​.