Wines Napa Valley Caymus - Cabernet Sauvignon Special Selection - 2017

Viniou Reviews

Caymus Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 is an iconic red wine emanating from the renowned Napa Valley AVA in California. Crafted exclusively from Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, this cuvée exemplifies both varietal character and the unique touch of its producer. The 2017 vintage benefited from a temperate and relatively dry growing season, which permitted optimal ripening and concentration of flavours. Caymus's meticulous vinification includes extended maceration for deeper extraction of colour and tannins, as well as careful barrel ageing, often in new French oak, which imparts vanilla and toasty nuances to the rich, dark fruit core. The result is a voluptuous wine with layers of blackcurrant, blackberry, cassis, dark cherry, touches of cocoa and spice, all enveloped in a luxuriously smooth texture balancing power and elegance.

Napa Valley sits at the heart of California’s prestigious wine country. The region's Mediterranean climate features warm, sunny days tempered by cool nights and morning fog, ideal for slow and even grape ripening. The valley's diverse soils, ranging from volcanic to alluvial, provide excellent drainage and impart mineral complexity to the wines. Established in the mid-19th century, Napa Valley rose to international acclaim in the late 20th century, particularly for world-class Cabernet Sauvignon, rivalled only by a handful of regions globally.

When considering food pairings, the depth and structure of Caymus Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon lend it well to robust dishes. Classic matches include grilled ribeye steak, slow-cooked lamb shank, or duck breast with a port reduction sauce. For a regionally inspired pairing, consider a California tri-tip barbecue or short ribs glazed with a dark berry sauce. Mature hard cheeses such as aged cheddar or gouda also complement this wine’s complex profile, as do earthy dishes featuring wild mushrooms or truffle.

To enjoy the full aromatic range and plush texture of this wine, serve it slightly below room temperature, ideally between 16 and 18°C. Decanting for at least one hour before serving is recommended, allowing the wine to breathe and reveal its abundant bouquet and refined tannins. This Caymus Special Selection will continue to evolve gracefully if cellared, but already displays great harmony and depth in this vintage.