Caymus and Caymus Special Selection are both wines produced by the iconic Caymus Vineyards in Napa Valley. While they come from the same winery and are made from Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, there are some differences between the two wines.
Caymus Napa Valley is often considered the flagship wine of the winery. It is a classic representation of a Napa Valley Cabernet, known for its rich and bold flavors. This wine is crafted to be approachable in its youth, meaning it can be enjoyed soon after release without the need for extensive aging. It showcases the characteristics of the Napa Valley terroir, with ripe fruit flavors, balanced tannins, and a smooth finish.
On the other hand, Caymus Special Selection is a more limited and prestigious wine. It is made from the best lots of grapes sourced from the estate's top vineyard sites. This wine undergoes a more rigorous selection process, with only the highest quality grapes making it into the final blend. It is often considered the pinnacle of Caymus' winemaking, representing the epitome of their style and craftsmanship.
One of the main differences between the two wines is the level of concentration and intensity. Caymus Special Selection tends to be more full-bodied and powerful, with deeper flavors and a more pronounced structure. It often exhibits more complexity and nuance, with layers of flavors that evolve over time.
In contrast, Caymus Napa Valley is slightly less concentrated and precocious. While still delivering big flavors, it may be a bit more approachable and easy-drinking in its youth. This wine is designed to be enjoyed without the need for extensive aging, although it can certainly develop further complexity with time in the bottle.
Both wines are known for their consistent quality and ability to age gracefully. However, Caymus Special Selection is generally considered to have a longer aging potential due to its higher concentration and structure. It can benefit from several years of cellaring to allow the flavors to integrate and evolve.
In terms of price, Caymus Special Selection typically commands a higher price point compared to Caymus Napa Valley. This is due to the limited production and higher quality of the Special Selection wine.
The main differences between Caymus and Caymus Special Selection lie in their concentration, intensity, aging potential, and price. Caymus Napa Valley is a more accessible and approachable wine that showcases the classic Napa Valley Cabernet style, while Caymus Special Selection represents the pinnacle of Caymus' winemaking with its heightened complexity and aging potential. Both wines are exceptional examples of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon and offer a unique experience for wine enthusiasts.