CADE Estate Winery is a benchmark producer from Howell Mountain, one of Napa Valley’s most respected high elevation appellations. The estate focuses on precision, structure, and a clear expression of mountain terroir.
The vineyards sit between roughly 1,800 and over 2,100 feet above sea level. They are planted primarily to Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by smaller blocks of Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot, and Petit Verdot. Howell Mountain stands out as one of Napa Valley’s most distinctive AVAs. Its red volcanic soils, fractured bedrock, and consistent sunlight above the fog line shape wines with firm structure and pronounced tannins. As a result, the wines show depth, tension, and natural longevity. CADE embraces this character deliberately and does not try to soften it. Instead, the estate aims for power with precision rather than overt opulence.
Winemaker Danielle Cyrot leads the winemaking at CADE Estate Winery. She has been with the estate since 2012 and serves as head winemaker. Under her direction, CADE combines deep experience with a strong sustainability ethic and a clear commitment to terroir driven mountain wines.
In the cellar, CADE emphasizes restraint and clarity of site. The team designs fermentations to extract texture while protecting freshness. At the same time, élevage supports the wine instead of dominating it. Cabernet Sauvignon is the flagship wine of the estate. It typically shows dark mountain fruit, graphite, forest floor, and savory herbal notes. Compared to many valley floor Napa Cabernets, these wines feel more focused and energetic. They deliver structure and freshness rather than excess weight.
The estate traces its origins to the early 2000s, when John and Kim Hunnicutt founded the winery. Later, PlumpJack Group acquired CADE Estate Winery. The family owned hospitality and wine company was founded by Gavin Newsom and Gordon Getty.
Mourvèdre
Cabernet Sauvignon
