Cellar for up to 11 years. Serve chilled. The Cakebread family’s love affair with wine began in the 1970s when estate founder Jack Cakebread visited friends in Napa Valley and was so enchanted by what he saw that he returned the next day to buy their land. What started out as a modest family-run winery based in Rutherford has now blossomed into a globally-recognised producer with seven family members involved in the running of the company. In total Cakebread Cellars has 225 hectares of vines across 13 different vineyard sites which allow them to craft complex, powerful wines which express the character of the local terroir. For this Chardonnay head winemaker Stephanie Jacobs sources grapes from cool climate vineyards in southern Napa along with some fruit from northern Napa with riper, more tropical fruit flavours for a harmonious and balanced wine. On the nose there are rich notes of honeydew melon, apple, citrus and peach while the first sip reveals a smooth, well-rounded texture and long finish with hints of caramel, toast, and baking spice from the oak ageing. The luscious, creamy flavour profile makes this a great wine to enjoy with roast chicken, rich pasta dishes, leafy salads and hearty recipes like moussaka or aubergine parmigiana.