2008 Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
(15.2%): Medium ruby. Currant, kirsch , fresh herbs, mint and espresso bean on the nose; turned a bit greener with air. The palate communicates a slightly port-like ripeness to the flavors of black cherry, licorice and chocolate. The elevated alcohol is apparent in this rich but somewhat chunky Cabernet. Finishes with medicinal menthol and licorice notes and nicely integrated, building tannins. A bit liqueur-like, chocolatey and aggressive for my taste, giving the impression of a wide range of ripeness. But nicely concentrated.
Critic scores
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
(15.2% alcohol): Good full ruby-red. Musky aromas of crushed dark berries, black cherry, licorice and chocolate. Creamy and seamless on the palate, with an almost port-like quality to the black cherry and dark chocolate liqueur flavors. Immediately accessible owing to its lushness and sweetness but showed a rather cloying cough medicine quality as it opened in the mouth. Finishes with building dusty tannins and a note of toffee.
About the producer
Caymus Vineyards, based in the heart of Napa Valley, produces Cabernet Sauvignon from low-fertility valley floor and mountain sites, shaped by meticulous viticulture including dry farming, high-density planting, yield thinning, and late harvesting to achieve its signature rich, opulent style.