Caymus Vineyards

In 1972, Chuck Wagner joined his parents, Charlie and Lorna, when they decided to bring their home winemaking talents into the world of professional vintners and establish Caymus Vineyards. Production in Rutherford, California began with redwood fermentation tanks that resembled hot tubs and a few barrels given to the Wagners by neighbors Beaulieu Vineyards and Inglenook.  After trying a few different varietals over the years, Caymus Vineyards is now a standard-bearer for Napa Valley Cabernet, producing a consistently rich, supple house style with Caymus Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon. Special Selection still holds the unique honor of being twice-named Wine Spectator’s “Wine of the Year.” In 2007, Chuck was chosen to receive Wine Spectator Magazine’s Distinguished Service Award given to individuals who have made significant and long-lasting contributions to the wine industry.    

Caymus continues to be a hands-on, family-owned and -operated winery situated in the heart of the Napa Valley, and now another generation is expanding the legacy of artisan winemaking.  While Chuck continues to direct winemaking at Caymus, three of Chuck’s four children continue the Wagner family farming and winemaking tradition:  Chuck’s son, Charlie Wagner II, heads Mer Soleil Chardonnay and has created a new proprietary blend, Conundrum Red. Belle Glos single-vineyard Pinot Noir, named in honor of Caymus co-founder Lorna Belle Glos Wagner, is led by son Joseph Wagner who also produces Meiomi – a Pinot blended from three Region I areas of California. Daughter Jenny Wagner is an apprentice winemaker at Caymus; while youngest daughter, Erin, is still in college.  Conundrum White, a “puzzle” of a wine comprised of five different varietals is made by longtime winemaker, Jon Bolta.  All brands unite as the Wagner Family of Wine.