How long should you let Caymus age?

Answered by Joseph Vos

As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting and experiencing a wide range of wines throughout my career. One that has consistently stood out to me is Caymus, a renowned winery known for their exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon. When it comes to aging Caymus, there are a few key factors to consider.

First and foremost, it is important to note that Caymus wines are crafted to be enjoyed upon release. The winemakers at Caymus have a specific vision in mind for their wines, and they strive to achieve a perfect balance of flavors and textures that can be appreciated from the moment the bottle is opened. This means that you don't necessarily need to cellar a bottle of Caymus for an extended period of time to enjoy it at its best.

That being said, Caymus wines do have the potential to age gracefully and develop additional complexities over time. The general consensus among experts is that Caymus can be aged for a period of 5-10 years from the vintage date. This timeframe allows the wine to evolve and mature, revealing new layers of flavor and aroma.

When considering whether to age a bottle of Caymus, it is important to take into account the specific vintage. Not all vintages are created equal, and some may have a greater potential for aging than others. Vintage variations can be influenced by factors such as weather conditions during the growing season, grape quality, and winemaking techniques employed.

In my personal experience, I have had the pleasure of tasting older vintages of Caymus that have been aged for over a decade. These wines have shown remarkable complexity, with flavors and aromas that have evolved beautifully. However, it is worth noting that not all palates may appreciate the additional nuances that come with extended aging. Some individuals may prefer the vibrant fruit-forward characteristics that are present in younger Caymus wines.

While Caymus wines are crafted to be enjoyed upon release, they do have the potential to age gracefully for a period of 5-10 years. The decision to age a bottle of Caymus ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you enjoy the evolving flavors and aromas that come with aging, then by all means, cellar a bottle and experience the magic that time can bring. However, if you prefer the vibrant fruit-forward characteristics that are present in younger wines, there is no need to delay the pleasure of enjoying a bottle of Caymus.