Estate Bottled (1985)
SommeliAI Insights
A mature Cabernet Sauvignon with aromas of sour black cherry, anise, and blackberry, leading to a silky smooth palate with fine-grained tannins.
About this wine
The 1985 Caymus Vineyards Estate Bottled Cabernet Sauvignon presents a mature red garnet color, indicative of its age. On the nose, it offers aromas of sour black cherry, anise, and blackberry, which carry over to the palate. The wine is silky smooth, with fine-grained, integrated tannins, and finishes with a pretty sour cherry candy aftertaste. This vintage was crafted under the guidance of winemaker Randy Dunn, who was known for his classically inspired wines. The 1985 vintage is considered one of the last before Caymus shifted its winemaking priorities in 1987.
About the grape
Cabernet Sauvignon, a grape known for its thick skins and small berries, thrives in Napa Valley's climate, producing wines with deep color and robust tannins. Caymus Vineyards, established in 1972 by the Wagner family, has been crafting Cabernet Sauvignon since its inception. The 1985 vintage was particularly notable, benefiting from a long, cool growing season that allowed the grapes to develop full flavors and balanced acidity. This vintage is often regarded as one of the finest from that era, showcasing the exceptional quality of Cabernet Sauvignon cultivated in Napa Valley.
Quick facts
- 🍷 The 1985 Caymus Vineyards Estate Bottled Cabernet Sauvignon was crafted under the guidance of renowned winemaker Randy Dunn, who served as Caymus's first full-time winemaker from 1975 through the 1985 vintage.
- 🍒 This vintage is celebrated for its deep, full-bodied character, offering aromas of black cherries, sweet cassis, dark soil tones, cigar smoke, and a touch of mint.
- 🏛️ The 1985 vintage was one of the last before Caymus shifted its focus in 1987, marking the end of an era dedicated to classically-inspired winemaking.
- 🏞️ Caymus Vineyards, established in 1972 by the Wagner family, named the winery after the Native American tribe 'Caymus' that once inhabited the Yountville area.
- 👏 The 1985 Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon has been praised for its balance and complexity, with a fine core of fruit, good focus, and grip, and a long, classy finish.
Palate profile
Producer
Caymus Vineyards, established in 1972 by Chuck Wagner and his parents, Charlie and Lorna, has deep roots in Napa Valley dating back to the 1850s. The winery is renowned for its Cabernet Sauvignon, particularly the Special Selection, which is the only wine to have been honored twice as Wine Spectator's "Wine of the Year." In 2022, Caymus celebrated its 50th anniversary, marking half a century of winemaking excellence. The name "Caymus" originates from the Rancho Caymus land grant, reflecting the region's rich history.
