Caymus Vineyards Napa Valley

Since its founding in 1972, Caymus Vineyards has focused its attention on the production of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. Charles F. (Charlie) Wagner, his wife Lorna Belle Glos Wagner and their son Charles J. (Chuck) Wagner built their winery among the vines planted on the family's ranch in Rutherford, a district soon recognized for producing world-class Cabernet Sauvignon. The Wagners' first production of just 240 cases came from the 1972 harvest. In 1975, they produced their first "Special Selection" Cabernet, made from the outstanding lots of that vintage. Special Selection Cabernet is produced only in vintages that Chuck Wagner feels are appropriate for this bottling; no Special Selection was made in 1977, 1993 or 1996. Special Selection is the only wine to have been named "Wine of the Year" twice by Wine Spectator magazine; both these wines, from the 1984 and 1990 vintages, were made by Chuck Wagner.

Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 Caymus enjoys an enviable record - have they ever had an off vintage for Cabernet? Demand continues to soar but production levels have declined. Always lush, concentrated and dramatic, it is now composed primarily of Cabernet Sauvignon. The addition of either Merlot or Cabernet Franc is vintage dependent. In addition to their own Rutherford Bench fruit they source from outstanding growers on the Rutherford Bench, Mount Veeder, and Atlas Peak. This wine displays a nearly opaque dark scarlet colour. The nose is assertive with a vibrant array of showy characteristics - cassis, vanilla, cranberry, French oak, coffee and potpourri. The palate shows the ripeness of perfectly mature grapes, the fruit impression then expands to richness with fine gritty tannins. Abundant with layered flavours of brown spice, toasted oak, white pepper and creme de cassis - very rich yet harmonious and supple. "Supple and creamy-textured, with mocha, ripe plum and cherry flavours that show touches of tobacco, espresso and underbrush. Full-bodied, gaining tannic traction on the finish, elegant and readily approachable. Drink now through 2018." 91 points, Wine Spectator Insider, Sept 21, 2011

Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 "Special Selection" Consistently one of the most highly regarded and expensive California wines. From a 73 acre estate vineyard formerly planted to walnuts and plums. "Temptingly rich and layered, with complex mocha, plum and wild berry fruit that's spicy and aromatic. Full-bodied, gaining depth and turning ever more elegant and detailed, with tannins that give this traction. Drink now through 2019. 29,820 cases made." 93 points, Wine Spectator, Nov 2011

Napa Valley Zinfandel 2008 The favourite wine of Caymus founder Joseph Wagner, this is a meaty, dark, soft and spicy mouthful of a wine. A little petite sirah is blended in to add richness and to soften the sometimes overly tart qualities of pure Zinfandel. Fruit flavours of blackberries and pomegranate are enhanced by the spice of French oak. No ageing is necessary, as this is meant to be enjoyed upon release.

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All wines are available by the unmixed case to Licensees and Private Consumers, subject to availability.

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