Caymus Vineyards has long been an icon of Napa. For years, it has held a top spot as one of the most searched-for Cabernet Sauvignons on WineSearcher.com. What’s behind the popularity of Caymus? Read on for our review of the Caymus Vineyards wine tasting experience and the wines.
Scenic Vineyard Experience
True to its mantra around the importance of family, Caymus Vineyards offers an experience that is perfect for groups. Group tastings are set in shaded cabanas with cushioned wicker lounge sofas overlooking lovely floral gardens. The staff is friendly, attentive, and serves the perfect amount of pour that is generous enough to let you truly savor a wine, without being excessive.
The tasting appeals to multiple palates by offering a mix of both whites and reds from across the Wagner portfolio. These include the Mer Soleil Chardonnay, Emmolo Merlot, and Caymus Zinfandel and Chardonnay. End-to-end, it’s hard not to leave without a greater appreciation for the winery.
Tasting Tips
Appointments are required, so make a reservation in advance here. Tastings are $50 and run through five wines from the Caymus family. The tasting is an adults-only tasting experience, with dogs under the ADA guidelines permitted.
The Wines
The Caymus Vineyards style is unmistakeable: rich dark fruit and ripe, supple tannins, layered with warm notes of cocoa and vanilla. Many young Cabernet Sauvignon wines can taste harsh and overly tannic. However, the Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon’s ripe dark fruit and smooth tannins make it approachable right off the shelf. Of course, cellaring the wine will yield earthier and mellower aromatics. But those looking for a plush, aromatic wine will be happy with the Cabernet Sauvignon as it is now. Regardless of vintage, Caymus wines remain consistent in quality and profile across vintages.
Caymus produces three main wines: a Napa Valley Cabernet ($90), a Special Selection Cabernet ($225) and a Zinfandel. The Special Selection was our favorite. It has rounder, more elegant tannins and more finessed, subtle aromatics than the Napa Valley Cabernet. In the photo below, you can see the deep violet color of its tannins.
It’s no surprise that Caymus has reached iconic wine status across the U.S. Its singular approachability, expressiveness, and richness of wines stands apart from other styles produced in the Napa area.
If you are visiting Napa, enjoy lush, approachable Cabernet Sauvignon wines, and seek a luxurious vineyard experience, consider Caymus Vineyards.
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