Dive Deep into Wine: The Story Behind the Bottle, Cakebread Cellars

The experience of wine exploration goes beyond the pour. There’s a story behind every bottle, which elevates the wine tasting experience—perhaps the most memorable part of the experience. As we continue our deep dive into wine, pour a glass of Chardonnay and read the story of Cakebread Cellars.

Where it all began

The Cakebread Family has been making Napa Valley wines since 1973, but they got their start with 22 acres in Rutherford, CA. More than fifty years later, they have acquired 560 vineyard acres.

Jack Cakebread, who founded the brand, produced all his own wines until his son joined him in 1978. However, he did not start out in the wine industry. Winemaking is considered his fifth career, having been in four roles before producing wine at age 43.

Built on Family

Cakebread Cellars started out as a family-owned vineyard, and they continue that tradition today. The family’s passion for winemaking has helped them earn their reputation as a top-tier winery.

Along with a family tradition, their success is built on quality, consistency and continuity—Characteristics that also apply to exceptional winemaking.

Cakebread Cellars Today

Today, Cakebread Cellars is one of the few wineries with an in-house culinary department. This department is dedicated to developing educational programs focused on the marriage of wine and food.

When you visit the winery, you may be able to see the small vegetable garden that Dolores Cakebread staked claim on when the winery was starting out. However, it was not for a specific grape vine, but to grow the vegetables needed to feed the family and the winery’s guests.

Cakebread Cellars is a highly esteemed Napa winery, but the family also prioritizes the idea of “sharing the pleasures of the table: good food, good wines and good company.”

The Portfolio

Because the original property was mostly pasture, Jack determined the best varietals to grow were Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc.

The first harvest of the planted vines yielded a small bottling Sauvignon Blanc, in 1976. However, the first wine released was a 1973 Chardonnay that started it all. Now, Cakebread Cellars has a portfolio of 12 wines with different varietals, such as Chardonnay, Merlot and Pinot Noir.

At Ocean Prime, you can enjoy Sauvignon Blanc, Cakebread Cellars, Napa Valley, California by the glass. You can enjoy Chardonnay, Cakebread Cellars, Napa Valley, California by the bottle

Learn more about Cakebread Cellars and the Cakebread family by visiting their website.