Episode Overview:
This episode traces the 50-year journey of Caymus Vineyards, from its 1972 founding by Charlie, Lorna, and Chuck Wagner to its status as a Napa Valley icon. We cover their fruit-forward Cabernet style, expansion into brands like Emmolo and Mer Soleil, and new ventures in Suisun Valley and beyond.

Further reading:

• Wine Spectator: “The Story of Caymus: Past, Present and Future” (Nov 15, 2023)
• Forbes: “Caymus Vineyards Celebrates 50 Years in Napa Valley” (Jul 10, 2024)
• Wine Folly: Caymus Vineyards Profile
• VinePair: “Caymus Wine: The King of Napa Cabernet”

Tasting Notes:

• 2022 Caymus Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 50th Anniversary: Deep ruby, with black cherry, cocoa, and vanilla notes. Velvety, balanced finish.
• Caymus Special Selection: Bold, with fine tannins, dark fruit, and spice. Ages well but approachable young.
• Caymus-Suisun Grand Durif: Opulent Petite Sirah with harmonious tannins and rich fruit.

Strategies for Building and Retaining a Successful Wine Club

Further reading:

https://wineindustryadvisor.com/2025/06/03/losing-wine-sales-online-your-website-might-be-the-reason-expert-editorial/

https://wineindustryadvisor.com/2020/07/08/secret-building-successful-wine-club/

https://wbmonline.com.au/how-to-retain-your-wine-club-customers/

Concrete is making a comeback in the wine industry.

Further reading:

https://www.jancisrobinson.com/articles/concrete-evidence

https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2025/06/rioja-producers-reinforce-their-commitment-to-concrete/

https://www.thewinesociety.com/discover/explore/expertise/winemaking-barrels-butts-and-tanks

Sources:

https://caulfieldmountain.blogspot.com/2013/02/australian-terroir-belonging-to-country.html

https://www.jancisrobinson.com/articles/grosset-biodynamics-sceptic-converted

https://www.theaustralian.com.au/life/columnists/max-allen/winemaker-jeff-grosset-embraces-spirit-of-innovation-with-grosset-45/news-story/dd06730d014f83987a65c726d9687cc0?amp

https://www.gourmetontheroad.com/2022/08/tasting-with-masters-of-craft.html

Sources:

https://grapethinking.com/2025/01/25/winemaker-maxime-chapoutier-challenges-tradition-with-cross-continental-wine-blends/

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/crm73z0np93o

https://theglobalherald.com/news/innovative-winemaking-a-french-pioneer-challenges-traditional-norms/