Making this one free for all today because I thought it was a fun one. Enjoy!
One would think that with 45 vintages under her belt, Rosemary Cakebread would be jaded. But the former winemaker for Spottswoode and Mumm Napa Valley is always looking ahead. Her personal label, Gallica, launched in 2007. It originally focused on old-vine Petite Sirah and Cabernet Sauvignon, but over time, Grenache, Albariño, and other varieties have come into play in the portfolio.
Change is afoot. 2024 was the last vintage from her estate vineyard, the source of old-vine Petite Sirah and Cabernet; she’s now going “back to the future,” as she puts it, with plans to replant with head-trained vines and dry farming — and possibly with different varieties.
In the meantime, she’s playing, experimenting, and constantly thinking about what comes next. I had the opportunity to chat with Rosemary about what she’s learned over 45 vintages, where she gets inspiration, and her big takeaway from an interview with Yo-Yo Ma. If you’d rather read than watch the video, please check out the transcript button above.
