Caymus Vineyards

Caymus Vineyards: The Benchmark of Napa Valley Cabernet Caymus Vineyards is a name that resonates with wine lovers worldwide as the ultimate expression of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. Founded in 1972 by Chuck Wagner and his parents, Lorna and Charlie, the winery has spent over 50 years perfecting a style that is as celebrated for its opulence as it is for its remarkable consistency. A Family Legacy of Farmers The Wagner family’s roots in Napa Valley date back to the 1850s, but it was in 1972 that they formalized their winemaking tradition. Today, Caymus remains entirely family-run, with Chuck Wagner working alongside his children, Charlie and Jenny. Their philosophy is simple: they are farmers at heart, believing that great wine is made in the vineyard through meticulous attention to soil, climate, and vine health. The "Caymus Style": Richness and Approachability Caymus is famous for its signature winemaking style, often referred to as the "Caymus Style." Unlike traditional Cabernets that may require years of cellar aging to soften, Caymus wines are crafted to be approachable and luxurious from the day they are released. Flavor Profile: Known for being dark in color, with rich fruit, velvety tannins, and layered aromas of cocoa, cassis, and ripe berries. Vineyard Sourcing: Grapes are farmed across a range of Napa’s premier sub-appellations—from the valley floor (providing lushness) to the hillsides (providing backbone and structure). The Legend of "Special Selection" The crown jewel of the winery is the Caymus Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon. A Global First: Special Selection is the only wine in the world to be named Wine Spectator’s "Wine of the Year" twice (for the 1984 and 1990 vintages). Meticulous Craftsmanship: This wine is a blend of the very best barrels from the vintage, chosen for their intense concentration, supple flavors, and extraordinary longevity. It remains a global reference point for quality. Expansion and Innovation: Beyond the Valley While Cabernet is their flagship, the Wagners' passion for discovery has led to exciting expansions under the Wagner Family of Wine umbrella: Caymus-Suisun: Located in the nearby Suisun Valley, this estate produces the Grand Durif (Petite Sirah) and The Walking Fool red blend. Bonanza: A California Cabernet Sauvignon that celebrates the "simple pleasure" of a great glass of wine sourced from across the state's diverse vineyard lands. Emmolo: Managed by Jenny Wagner, this label focuses on creating a singular style of Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc. Why Caymus Vineyards is a Must for GrapeYear For collectors and enthusiasts on GrapeYear, Caymus represents a gold standard of prestige and reliability. Whether it is the iconic Napa Valley bottling or the legendary Special Selection, Caymus offers a wine experience that is both hedonistic and refined, making it a cornerstone of any serious wine collection.