Strawberries and minerals, nice acid, so fresh, very good. — 9 months ago
May be the best Malbec I’ve ever had. Smooth blackberry jam with ripe dark fruit, less bite than typical Malbecs. Would buy again. — 4 years ago
Love this. Excellent bit of spice — 7 years ago
A dang good Malbec. — 8 years ago
Everyone loved this ‘24 Riesling at Christmas’26.
Got it WineThing. — 5 months ago
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
Wow. What a decidedly gorgeous wine. Distinctive mineral and fruit complexity. Right up my alley @Lyle Fass — 4 years ago
Another great wine from the Wagner family ! — 6 years ago
Look at that Fucking color. Yes that is what Pinot is supposed to look like. Gorgeous. Unreal nose. Sour cherries, dry leaves, pinpoint precision. Takes 45 minutes to an hour before the symphony begins. But the unfurling and aromatic nuances are just gorgeous. The fruit is almost non existent on the nose the first 15-30 minutes then BAM! Palate is just amazing. Red Riesling on another level. This showing reminds me of Möbitz. It’s so ethereal and lacey. Stunning. Amazing delicate and refined red cherry fruit. More mid to early season cherries and gloriously juicy and perfectly ripe. This is so fine. Velvety and delicate Lacey tannins weave in and out of the finish. Stunning almost silly freshness. Stellar. — 7 years ago
Tropical fruit on the nose(maybe mango?) And honeysuckle. Apple notes with a mineral finish. Definitely sweet but beautifully balanced with acid. — 8 years ago
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!
— 8 months ago
High acid! — 6 years ago
Little spice on the front end then smooth. at maxwells — 6 years ago
Excellent Malbec. Had at Linger Restaurant in Denver, CO. Would buy if I could find it in Alabama. Unfortunately cannot. — 7 years ago
It was delicious! — 8 years ago
Laura & John Griffin
Bought in Florida with Erica - full bodied wine - — 5 months ago