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!
— 2 months ago

Blair Campomizzi

9.3

A favorite of mine. Fruit forward with easy going plum, black cherry and blueberry supported with the standard Caymus vanilla back. — 5 years ago

with Marilea and Arthur

John Eaton

9.3

Beautiful, soft, silky wine. Great mouth feel. Traditional Sauvignon Blanc noted very much in the background. Citrus and melon notes up front. My favorite American white. — 2 months ago

Kelley Raymond

9.2

Always a favorite — 10 months ago

Heather Robinson

8.9

HWT - very nice bold red but a bit $ - $50 on sale for $48. Close to old ghost level — 3 years ago

Wine Snob

10

Saved this gift for the holidays, my favorite Pinot Noir! — 5 years ago

Jocholla

9.2

Delicious plum, vanilla, blackberry cobbler, opened up well after long decant…not sure if the rumors are true but it would be odd for Constellation to leave the wine business altogether. I understand you have shareholders to keep happy, but you really see no rebound for this great product?!? — 9 months ago

Nikole Souder-Schale

9.3

A delicious Cabernet for a chocolate dessert. — 2 years ago

Cathy Corison

Owner/Winemaker Corison Winery

9.7

Happy Thanksgiving! Still my favorite vintage. — 4 years ago

Anthony Cammarata Jr.

9.1

Still one of my favorite wines. 2003 not as complex as older years but the “Best” nevertheless. — 5 years ago

with Daniel, Adriano and 1 other