Expert Tips: Deciding Between Special Selection and Caymus Napa Valley

If you're a fan of Cabernet Sauvignon, you've likely come across the name Caymus, either being lauded or vilified.  This controversial Napa Valley winery is undeniably famous for producing Cabernet Sauvignon. Today, we are sidestepping any controversy surrounding the winery and comparing two of their standout wines: the Caymus Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon and the Caymus Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon. While both are fantastic, they each have unique qualities that set them apart. Let's take a closer look, Mom.  

Caymus Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Overview:
The Caymus Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a staple in the winery's lineup. It's made from a blend of grapes sourced from various vineyards throughout Napa Valley, showcasing the region's diverse terroir.

Tasting Notes:
Flavor: Expect bold flavors with a mix of dark fruits like blackberry, plum, and cherry, along with hints of vanilla, cocoa, and a touch of spice.
Aroma: The aroma is rich, featuring ripe berries, a hint of oak, and subtle notes of tobacco and leather.
Mouthfeel: This wine is smooth and full-bodied, with well-integrated tannins that give it a silky finish.

Critics Say:
Wine Enthusiast describes it as "a rich, fruit-forward wine with layers of dark fruit and a touch of oak, perfect for any occasion."
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate notes, "The Caymus Napa Valley Cabernet is consistently a high-quality wine with a good balance of fruit and tannins."

Occasion:
The Caymus Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is versatile and approachable, making it a great choice for a variety of occasions, from casual dinners to celebratory moments.

Caymus Special Select Cabernet Sauvignon

Overview:
The Caymus Special Select Cabernet Sauvignon is the winery's flagship wine. It's produced only in exceptional years, using the best grapes from their top vineyards, and it receives meticulous attention during production.

Tasting Notes:
Flavor: The Special Select offers intense dark fruit flavors like blackberry, black cherry, and cassis, with noticeable notes of chocolate, espresso, and a hint of licorice.
Aroma: The aroma is powerful, with layers of dark fruit, cedar, floral notes, and a touch of earthiness and spice.
Mouthfeel: This wine is full-bodied and luxurious, with a velvety texture and robust tannins that provide a long, lingering finish.

Critics Say:

Wine Spectator raves, "The Caymus Special Select is a masterpiece, with incredible depth and complexity that make it truly special."
James Suckling praises it as "an exceptional wine with rich, layered flavors and a remarkable finish."

Occasion:
The Special Select is ideal for truly special occasions. It's perfect for milestone celebrations or intimate dinners where you want to make a lasting impression.

Key Differences

1. Quality and Selection:
The Napa Valley Cabernet is made from a blend of grapes from different vineyards, while the Special Select uses only the best grapes from the best vineyards in exceptional years.

2. Flavor and Complexity:                                                                                            Both wines are rich and flavorful, but the Special Select offers more depth and complexity, with additional layers of flavor and a more robust structure.

3. Price:
The Special Select is significantly more expensive than the Napa Valley Cabernet. Its price reflects the higher quality of grapes and the extra care taken in its production.

Final Note

Both the Caymus Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon and the Caymus Special Select Cabernet Sauvignon are exceptional wines, each catering to different needs and occasions. The Napa Valley Cabernet is a fantastic everyday wine for someone in an overpaid finance position with bold flavors and a smooth finish, perfect for various settings. On the other hand, the Special Select is a wine for special moments for the boss of the overpaid finance underling, offering an elevated experience with its complexity and luxurious feel.

As Wine Spectator puts it, "Caymus continues to set the standard for Napa Valley Cabernet." Whether you're choosing the Napa Valley for its approachability or the Special Select for its indulgence, you can't go wrong with Caymus. Sorry not sorry.  Cheers!