Caymus California Cabernet Sauvignon

Dry, dark, rich and velvety. This is a full-bodied Cabernet with ripe fruit and a plush, round texture. The nose shows blackberry, mulberry and dark currant, with cocoa powder. The palate brings ripe black fruit, mocha and warm cinnamon spice. Toasted oak adds vanilla and depth. The tannins are soft and lush, and the finish is smooth and generous.

The Wagner family introduced this wine with the 2021 vintage. It applies the signature Caymus style to Cabernet grown outside Napa Valley. Chuck Wagner looks for California sites with stony soils, south-facing slopes and moderately warm conditions. Sources range from Paso Robles to lesser-known parts of Lake, San Benito and Monterey Counties. The wine is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon and is bottled at around 14.6% ABV in a 750 mL bottle.

It is made to drink on release, though it will hold for a few years. Serve slightly below room temperature with ribeye, braised short ribs or burgers.