Special Selection (2018)
SommeliAI Insights
A rich, full-bodied Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon with dark fruit flavors and velvety tannins.
About this wine
The 2018 Caymus Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon presents a deep ruby color, hinting at its rich concentration. On the nose, it offers aromas of blackberry and currant, interwoven with notes of black licorice, anise, and crème de cassis. The palate reveals an earthiness, with brown spice, cigar box, and ripe dark fruits that linger throughout the long finish. The texture is opulent and rich, yet has a velvety quality with supple density. This wine is distinguished by its fine, luxurious tannins, balanced with ripe fruit, acidity, and oak, making it enjoyable upon release or with aging a decade or more.
About the grape
Cabernet Sauvignon, a grape that emerged in 17th-century France from a natural cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc, is renowned for its thick skins and small berries, which contribute to its deep color and robust tannins. At Caymus Vineyards, established in 1972 in Napa Valley, this varietal is cultivated with extended 'hang time,' allowing the grapes to develop rich flavors and mature tannins. The 2018 Caymus Special Selection is crafted from the finest barrels of the vintage, showcasing the winery's dedication to producing exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon. Notably, Caymus Special Selection is the only wine to have been honored twice as Wine Spectator's 'Wine of the Year,' for the 1984 and 1990 vintages.
Quick facts
- 🏆 Caymus Vineyards' Special Selection is the only wine in the world honored twice as Wine Spectator magazine's 'Wine of the Year,' for the 1984 and 1990 vintages.
- 🍇 The 2018 Special Selection is crafted exclusively from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon grapes sourced from Napa Valley.
- ⏳ Caymus employs a technique called 'hang time,' leaving grapes on the vine longer to develop deeper flavors and aromas.
- 🍷 The 2018 vintage boasts a rich, dense ruby color, with aromas of blackberry, currant, black licorice, anise, and crème de cassis.
- 👨👩👧👦 Caymus Vineyards remains 100% family-owned, with the Wagner family farming about 350 acres of choice Napa Valley land.
Palate profile
Producer
Caymus Vineyards, established in 1972 by Chuck Wagner and his parents, Charlie and Lorna, has deep roots in Napa Valley dating back to the 1850s. The winery is renowned for its Cabernet Sauvignon, particularly the Special Selection, which is the only wine to have been honored twice as Wine Spectator's "Wine of the Year." In 2022, Caymus celebrated its 50th anniversary, marking half a century of winemaking excellence. The name "Caymus" originates from the Rancho Caymus land grant, reflecting the region's rich history.
