Chuck Wagner, along with his parents Charlie and Lorna Wagner, established Caymus Vineyards in 1972. The winery quickly gained recognition for producing high-quality wines, with a strong focus on Cabernet Sauvignon. Chuck played a pivotal role in crafting the winery's signature style and establishing its reputation for excellence.
Under Chuck Wagner's guidance, Caymus Vineyards developed a reputation for producing rich, opulent, and powerful Cabernet Sauvignon wines that showcase the Napa Valley's unique terroir. These wines often feature intense fruit flavors, well-integrated oak, and a plush mouthfeel that has become synonymous with Caymus wines.
In addition to Caymus, the Wagner family have also been involved in other wine-related ventures, including the creation of the Mer Soleil Vineyard, known for its Chardonnay, and the Conundrum brand, which offers blends of white and red varietals.
Chuck Wagner's dedication to quality and his innovative approach to winemaking have earned him a prominent place in the California wine industry. His wines, including the iconic Caymus Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon, are highly sought after by wine enthusiasts and collectors around the world.
The Only Wine to Receive Wine Enthusiast's "Wine of the Year" Twice
Caymus Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon is more than just wine; it's a testament to the pursuit of perfection in Napa Valley winemaking. From its heritage to its flavor profile, aging potential, and luxurious texture, every aspect of this wine is designed to elevate your wine-drinking experience to new heights.
Each year, the Caymus winemaking team blind tastes all their lots of Cabernet Sauvignon, which come from 8 of Napa Valley's 16 sub-appellations, reflecting the region's great diversity of soils and temperature. Only the very best lots make it into Special Selection. Grapes for this wine are Napa Valley floor (75%) that is blended with hillside and sloped sites (25%). This blending of illustrious lots is singular and non-traditional - capturing soft, seductive, beautifully flavored valley fruit with the mountain wine providing "shoulders."
Tasting Notes:
A dark plum red, with aromas of melting dark chocolate, ripe cherries, violets, wisps of smoke and bakery spice. The palate is intense, layered and lingering, featuring dark currants, cocoa and roasted coffee. Tannins are super-fine and soft, alternating between serious and playful. Rich Cabernet flavors last long after entry. Drinking great already, this wine should remain interesting until 2034 and beyond.
Critical Acclaim:
94 Points Wine Spectator
90 Points Wilfred Wong