Wines Napa Valley Cakebread Cellars - Benchland Select - 2019

Viniou Reviews

Cakebread Cellars’ Benchland Select 2019 from the revered Napa Valley AVA is a red blend that beautifully showcases the hallmark traits of this celebrated Californian wine-growing region. While the precise varietal composition is proprietary, the cuvée is typically Cabernet Sauvignon-dominant, sometimes skilfully complemented by Merlot, Cabernet Franc, or other Bordeaux varietals. The 2019 vintage benefited from an extended, mild growing season, allowing the grapes to achieve full ripeness with exemplary balance. Hand-harvested fruit from Benchland parcels is vinified with meticulous attention, employing temperature-controlled fermentation and generous but restrained use of French oak barrels, which refine the wine’s tannic structure and enhance its aromatic complexity.

Napa Valley, located north of San Francisco, is world-famous for its exceptional terroir, forged by a combination of Mediterranean climate, regular morning fog, and well-drained alluvial soils. The volcanic and gravel-based soils of the valley floor and benchlands provide excellent drainage and complex mineral character, contributing layers of depth to the wines. Napa’s viticultural history traces back to the mid-19th century, with a reputation for crafting world-class wines solidified in the 1970s. Today, Napa remains synonymous with premium-quality New World Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux-style blends, prized for their concentration, finesse, and ageing potential.

This wine’s powerful yet polished structure is ideally suited for harmony with food. Classic pairings include grilled or roasted red meats such as ribeye steak, rack of lamb, or short ribs. The robust tannins and expressive fruit will also complement slow-cooked beef daubes or venison. For a regional twist, consider pairing with a hearty American barbecue, emphasising chargrilled flavours. Mature cheeses—particularly aged cheddar or Gouda—make for excellent companionship as well.

For optimum enjoyment, serve slightly below room temperature, between 16 and 18°C, allowing the aromas of blackcurrant, plum, and subtle cedar to fully express themselves in the glass. Decanting for an hour before serving will smooth out the tannins and further reveal the wine’s intricate bouquet and structure.