Cakebread Cellars 2012 Two Creeks Pinot Noir
Recently I commented on Cakebread’s Chardonnay, a real gem, so I wanted to dive farther into their wine offerings. Cakebread Cellars was founded, in 1973, by Jack and Dolores Cakebread and they have an enduring commitment to quality, their belief is that life’s occasions are elevated by good people, good food, and good wine flows through everything they do. In 2013, Cakebread Cellars celebrated their 40th harvest, and the second generation of winemaking, however in 1994, Cakebread made their first Pinot Noir, and in 1995, the family purchased a 60-acre former apple orchard in Anderson Valley near Boonville and began developing this vineyard to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Today, the winery owns 13 sites totaling 982 acres, 460 of which are currently planted. The Cakebread Website is full of interesting information and loaded with recipes, lots of great recipes, so be sure to check out the website, you won’t be disappointed.
Cakebread Cellars 2012 Two Creeks Pinot Noir is a blend of several French Dijon clones and the famed Joseph Swan and Pommard clones. With the Dijon clones supplying bright fruit and acidity, the small-berried Swan clone providing intense varietal flavors, and the Pommard clone contributing mid-palate weight and a warm spice tone, Two creeks is a fruit forward, yet complex pinot noir showcasing the best of Anderson Valley. Julianne Laks, winemaker at Cakebread, comments that “2012 was a picture-perfect vintage in California”
As I opened a bottle of their Two Creeks Pinot Noir, aged for 10 months in French oak (38% new), I was delighted with forthcoming aromas of lively red fruit, cherries, strawberries and raspberries with a hint of fragrant spice. The wine is silky smooth, very refined on the palate, bringing forth the vibrant red fruit, with the slightest touch of oak and earthy tones coming through and rounding out to a perfect finish. After drinking a glass, I agree with Julianne Laks and that 2012 was a picture-perfect vintage for Cakebread’s Two Creeks Pinot Noir. Be sure to add this wine (you can grab a bottle for under $50) to your cellar and pair it when you grill up a meaty fish such as swordfish or tuna.
Cheers!