ABOVE LEFT & BOTTOM: Cakebread Cellars Dancing Bear Ranch on
Howell Mountain.
Photographs by Andy Katz
TOP: Dennis, Jack, Dolores, and Bruce Cakebread.
Photograph by Terrence McCarthy
cult following later, Justin planted Va Piano Vineyards in 1999 with his own
hands. Formerly planted in wheat, the 20-acre estate is located in the
southeast corner of the Walla Walla Valley. Known for red varietals such
as cabernet sauvignon, syrah, merlot, cabernet franc, and petit verdot, Va
Piano Vineyards embodies the definition of high-quality fruit. A viticulturist
first, Justin established the quality of his grapes before opening the winery
in 2005.
The Tuscan-inspired tasting room that can be visited today is now the host
of Justin's hospitable dream and the Italian culture. Here guests enjoy his
variety of wines, such as Bruno's Blend, named in honor of the mentor
himself. Patrons are made to feel like family at Va Piano Vineyards as
impromptu plates of paninis are often passed around by Liz, Justin's wife,
while their three children, Jake, Arianna, and Sienna, can often be spotted
playing on the vast property.
