Cakebread Cellars history

The original winery was enlarged in 1977, and Mondavi enologist Larry Wara was hired as a wine consultant.

In 1979, Bruce Cakebread joined the family business as a full-time winemaker after graduating from the University of California, Davis.

Cakebread also produced its first Rutherford Reserve vintage in 1980.

In 1982, Jack Cakebread acquired an adjacent 12-acre ranch and planted Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc.

After introducing state-of-the-art neutron probe technology to maximize vineyard production, Cakebread Cellars began marketing internationally in the United Kingdom, Canada, Japan, Hong Kong, and Singapore in 1984.

In 1985, the Cakebread's remodeled their 100-year-old winery home with a state-of-the-art kitchen and comfortable guest accommodations.

In 1986, Dennis Cakebread joined the family business, managing finance, sales, and marketing.

In 1990, Jack Cakebread served as president of the Napa Valley Vintners Association, and the following year Cakebread produced their first Merlot.

In 1994, they introduced their first Pinot Noir and Rubaiyat.

In 1996, the winery started purchasing fruit in Carneros from Foster Road and then Tinsley Ranch.

In 1998, Cakebread purchased 200 acres on Howell Mountain and began developing these hillside vineyards into what would become Dancing Bear Ranch.

In 2000, Cakebread completed its Oakville winery facility.

In 2002, Bruce Cakebread became president and chief operating officer of the company, and Julianne Laks became winemaker.

In 2003, Cakebread acquired the 27-acre Foster Road Vineyard in Carneros and the 40-acre Maple Lane Vineyards in Calistoga.

In 2006, the winery purchased its Milton Road property in Carneros, and the following year the east addition to the main building was completed with tasting areas and lab space.

In 2008, Cakebread acquired its Arroyo Creek Vineyard.

In 2009, Dennis Cakebread became vice-chairman of the Board of Directors, and the Suscol Springs Vineyard produced its first commercial wines.

In 2012, Cakebread purchased Annahala Vineyard in Anderson Valley.