20 Facts about Caymus Wines

 

  1. Founding Year: Caymus Vineyards was founded in 1972 by Charlie Wagner Sr., his wife Lorna Belle Glos Wagner, and their son Chuck Wagner. Imagine enjoying a glass of wine from a family that has been crafting exceptional vintages for over 50 years!
  2. Special Selection: Caymus Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon is the only wine in the world to have twice earned Wine Spectator’s "Wine of the Year" award, in 1989 and 1995. This accolade makes every sip a taste of history.
  3. Family Tradition: The Wagner family has been farming in Napa Valley since the 1850s, making Caymus a true legacy wine. Drinking Caymus is like taking a trip through Napa Valley’s rich winemaking history.
  4. Name Origin: Caymus is named after a Mexican land grant that once included the Wagner family’s land. It’s a tribute to the region’s deep-rooted heritage.
  5. Walking Fool: Charles Glos, Lorna’s grandfather, was affectionately nicknamed “The Walking Fool” because he would walk miles to work at local wineries. His dedication is a testament to the family's enduring commitment to winemaking.
  6. Chip Bud Technique: Lorna’s father, Charlie Glos, invented the "chip bud" technique, revolutionizing vineyard grafting worldwide. This innovation ensures every vine is rooted in the best tradition.
  7. Prohibition Resilience: Despite Prohibition nearly wiping out their winemaking efforts, the Wagner family’s resilience led to the creation of Caymus. Their perseverance is evident in every bottle.
  8. Homegrown Grapes: Initially, the Wagners sold their grapes to other wineries, but they realized they could make superior wines themselves. This bold move marked the birth of Caymus wines.
  9. Cabernet Sauvignon: Caymus is renowned for its rich and complex Cabernet Sauvignons. A glass of Caymus Cab is like indulging in the essence of Napa Valley’s finest terroir.
  10. Bonanza: Chuck Wagner introduced Bonanza, a California-appellation Cabernet Sauvignon, celebrating vineyard land across the state. It's a nod to discovering new wine adventures.
  11. Conundrum: Inspired by his father’s blending experiments at the dinner table, Chuck created Conundrum, a unique blended white wine. It's perfect for those who love exploring diverse flavor profiles.
  12. Mer Soleil: Charlie Wagner produces coastal Mer Soleil Chardonnays, which reflect the dramatic growing conditions of Santa Lucia Highlands. These Chardonnays offer a coastal breeze in every sip.
  13. Emmolo Wines: Named after the maternal side of the family, Emmolo wines, crafted by Jenny Wagner, offer fresh takes on Sauvignon Blanc and Merlot. They are ideal for those seeking unexpected and delightful wine experiences.
  14. Sea Sun: Charlie also produces Sea Sun Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, showcasing regions like Monterey and Santa Barbara. Each bottle captures the essence of California's diverse climates.
  15. Red Schooner: This Malbec is made from grapes grown in Argentina's Andes Mountains, then shipped chilled to Caymus. It’s a wine journey that starts in South America and ends in your glass.
  16. Generational Craft: The Wagner family involves multiple generations in their winemaking process, ensuring a blend of tradition and innovation. Sharing a bottle with family and friends continues this legacy.
  17. Vineyard Sustainability: The Wagners are committed to sustainable farming, making their wines not only delicious but also environmentally friendly.
  18. Wine Dinners: Caymus wine dinners often feature vertical tastings, allowing guests to explore different vintages side by side. It's a unique experience for any wine enthusiast.
  19. Family Lore: At family gatherings, Chuck’s dad, Charlie, used to blend different wines at the table to find the perfect pairing. This tradition inspired the creative spirit behind many of their wines.
  20. Award-Winning Legacy: With numerous accolades and a storied history, Caymus wines are celebrated worldwide. Attending a Caymus wine dinner offers a chance to savor wines that have captivated critics and connoisseurs alike.

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