Cakebread Cellars, Napa Valley (California) Chardonnay 2018

 Before Jack and Dolores Cakebread acquired a Napa Valley vineyard in the early 1970s, they owned Cakebread’s Garage in Oakland.  As they planted vines and built a winery while also operating the garage, they commuted from Oakland to Napa Valley with their three sons.  The first wine they released was a 1973 Chardonnay.  Today, two of their sons, Dennis and Bruce run the winery.  Grapes for the 2018 Chardonnay come from the cool region of Carneros.  The grapes went directly to the press and nearly 90 percent of the juice was fermented in French oak barrels, the remainder in stainless steel.  It displays elegance in its pale-yellow color, and aromas of ripe apple, citrus zest and a light note of vanilla.  The apple, pear, peach and vanilla flavors are concentrated and supported by vibrant acidity.  Sadly, I learned that Dolores Cakebread died on October 2, leaving behind her husband, their three sons, four grandchildren, a great-grandchild and the legacy of a great winery.  She will be missed.