Peter van den Besselaar

9.2

Vintage 2017 | Tasted seven years ago, but has gained refinement and elegance. Rich smell, lemongrass, beautiful balance. — 2 months ago

Brad White

9.1

2020. Slightly sweet initial taste. Good. — 3 months ago

Mike Evans

9.0

Lean but balanced. — 7 months ago

Sipping Fine Wine

9.2

Deep Ruby with aromas of berry fruits, oak and floral spice notes on this Joe Wagner creation. On the palate blackberry and cherry currant flavors with hints of cedar and leather, adding some herb notes. Fine chalky tannins, good acidity, well balanced, ending with fruit and earthy mineral notes. Nice! Grab a filet! Well done Joe! — a year ago

Donald Williams

9.5

Got away with more aging than recommended. Still lovely. — 3 months ago

with Bonnie

Freddy R. Troya

9.5

Caymus Vineyards – Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
Napa Valley, California – USA 🇺🇸

Overview
Caymus Special Selection is the flagship Cabernet, crafted only in exceptional years. The 2018 vintage stands tall among recent releases, showing why Chuck Wagner’s vision continues to shape Napa’s most recognized “luxury Cab.” 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, sourced from prime valley-floor vineyards, it strikes the perfect balance between Caymus’ signature ripe, fruit-forward style and an added layer of structure from a long, balanced growing season.

Aromas & Flavors
A powerful bouquet of ripe blackberries, cassis, and dark cherries, layered with cocoa nibs, espresso, and baking spices. Subtle hints of licorice, cedar, and vanilla lift the complexity, while a core of lush fruit drives the palate. The oak integration is seamless, giving a supple sweetness without overwhelming the fruit.

Mouthfeel
Rich, opulent, and velvety—yet with surprising finesse. The tannins are silky and well-structured, giving length without heaviness. The finish lingers on black fruit and mocha, balanced by just enough acidity to keep it vibrant.

Winemaking Notes
Meticulous fruit selection, long maceration for concentration, and extended aging in new French oak (18+ months). The Wagner hallmark: generous fruit expression wrapped in polished oak for immediate pleasure but with aging potential.

Food Pairing
An indulgent pairing with ribeye, prime rib, or braised short ribs. For a decadent twist, try it with dark chocolate truffles or roasted lamb with rosemary.

Verdict
One of the most impressive Caymus Special Selection vintages in recent memory—showing both lush Napa Valley opulence and refined elegance. A wine that thrills now but promises to shine for years.

Personal Pick Highlight
This 2018 stands as my favorite Caymus of the modern decade—a true benchmark that captures everything people love about Napa Cabernet at its richest and most expressive. Cheers!
— 7 months ago

Donald Williams

9.4

Still lovely after all these years. — 3 months ago

with Bonnie

Laura & John Griffin

8.9

Bought in Florida with Erica - full bodied wine - — 3 months ago

Catherine Gmoser

9.1

Great full bodied jammy red — 10 months ago

Vicki Ausloos

9.6

Love the smooth oakey finish. Very pleasing drinking wine. — 2 years ago