Fall is a time of year we all start drinking more red wines. Nothing is better than getting home from work on a chilly fall evening, and curling up with your favorite blanket, a great book, and a glass of Cakebread Cellars! I actually remember the first time I had ever tasted Cakebread Pinot Noir, back in 2012 when I was working as a Wine Director at a popular New Jersey restaurant. A customer ordered it, and I had to taste the wine for flaws. I was excited because, from my Sommelier training, I knew of the winery and its presence, but had never had the opportunity to taste the wines. I, of course, loved the wine and when I was thinking of fall stories to work on, I was excited to try these wines again!

With so much wine out there, it’s always really nice to go back to something you know and love. I open a bottle of Cakebread Cellars and I know it’s going to be a great wine, one that will also please my friends and family.

The brand is now 45 years of age, with two generations of experience making some of the best wines of California. Cakebread Cellars has grown to become a famed winery in Napa Valley, but also a world-class winery. Now that it’s getting darker earlier and cooler in the evenings, it’s time to break out the beautiful fall reds including these two from Cakebread Cellars! 

 

Cakebread Cellars 2016 Two Creeks Vineyard Pinot Noir: 2016. This is a fresh and lively pinot noir with that fruit-forward flavor expressing black cherry, raspberry, and rose aromas. The wine is balanced by tannins that are smooth, and layered flavors that lead to a long finish. Pair this with some duck or prime rib and a side of crispy brussels sprouts or sauteed mushrooms. It’s a wine that is delicious now but will also benefit from 3-5 years of bottle age, should you give it as a gift… or buy a few for yourself to enjoy! $43

Cakebread Cellars 2015 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon: 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon has long been recognized as the king of Napa Valley. I know that I love bringing a California Cabernet to dinner parties because people tend to always gravitate towards the grape.  This wine and vintage reign supreme, so everyone will seriously love you if you bring this to the next party! It boasts pretty aromas of ripe boysenberry, dark cherry, and blackberry. It’s followed with more aromas of sweet oak and herbal spice, which is very good for fall food pairings. This wine can easily be paired with Mediterranean spice, honey nut squash, a fall charcuterie board, and of course… beef filet. It has a long and lovely finish with nice spice and fruit flavors. $68

For those looking for incredible quality wines at affordable Napa prices, I recommend Cakebread Cellars. These wines are age-able, pair-able with fall and winter foods, and also make a great gift for any wine lover.

Always remember, eat what you like and drink what you love, please pair responsibly!