Slightly Off-Balance

I am sitting here drinking this delightful Pinot Noir on Fat Tuesday before I give up wine for Lent.  A couple of  thoughts come to mind – why am I giving up wine?  And if I am, I had better drink something good tonight.  The Cakebread Pinot did not disappoint.  In fact, I have never met a disappointing Cakebread wine, have you?

2008 Cakebread Cellars Carneros Napa Valley Pinot Noir

Alcohol Content:  14.7%

Price:  $49.00

Description per label: We craft this complex, aromatic Pinot Noir from multiple, high quality clones grown in several outstanding vineyards in the Carneros district of southern Napa Valley, a cool-climate region renowned for its peerless Pinots.  In 2008, spring frosts in Carneros reduced yields, concentrating flavors in our Pinot Noir grapes.  Vinified exclusively from free-run juice and aged 15 months in French oak barrels, our 2008 Carneros Pinot Noir boasts vivid black cherry, blueberry and rose petal aromas.  Its succulent cherry, plum and red berry flavors are lifted by fresh acidity and fine, supple tannins.

Review:

I first discovered Cakebread before I had children.  It was an idyllic point in my life when I had an income, without the financial (but worthwhile) drain of children.  I drank good wine, ate in great restaurants and had wild adventures.  This Pinot Noir took me back to that time of civility and excitement, it is the perfect balance of spicy and smooth.  The wine leads with a smooth and supple blend of dark cherry flavors.  It reminds me of my organized, serene life before my priceless children.  The finish is brings the excitement and adventure of the spice.  It’s reminiscent of salsa dancing at the Capitol Club in the Bay Area.  

Cakebread harvests their Pinot Noir grapes at night to protect workers from the summer heat.  I can relate to this, as I do my best work at night, when protected from the distractions of my children… usually.

On a scale of 1-10, I rate the Cakebread Pinot Noir a 7 for its complexity and ability to transport me back in time.

Suggested pairings: Salmon, barbecue, Thai food and any time you want to reminisce.