Since its first vintage in 1972, Caymus Vineyards has become one of the most important and successful Napa Cabernet houses, with a track record for exceptional wines. The flagship Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Special Selection was named Wine Spectator’s Wine of the Year twice, in both 1989 and 1994, with the 1984 and 1990 vintage bottlings, respectively.
Chuck Wagner, who co-founded the winery with his parents, has continued to move forward. Under his guidance, the Wagner Family of Wines has grown from 250 cases to producing now more than a million cases annually across multiple brands that include Conundrum, Mer Soleil, Emmolo, Red Schooner, Sea Sun, Bonanza and Caymus-Suisun. The range of wines has moved beyond Cabernet Sauvignon and includes Sauvignon Blanc, Petite Sirah, multiple styles of Chardonnay and compelling blends both red and white.
Wagner sat down for this exclusive interview with Wine Spectator editor and publisher Marvin R. Shanken to recap the past 50 years and talk about what the future has in store.
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