By cork
Old Faithful is a geyser located in Yellowstone National Park, earning its name because it consistently erupts every 44 to 125 minutes. If Old Faithful has a vinous counterpart, it’s the CAYMUS Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. With 90+ scores spanning over two decades, and an instantly recognizable and consistent flavor profile that would defeat the purpose of a blind tasting, the wine is a model of consistency and crowd-pleasing style. As it cascades over the palate you’ll know, without a doubt, the 2014 vintage is no exception. Dark as night in color, the viscosity, dark fruit, vanilla, velvety tannins and judicious use of oak that one expects are all present. Aging and/or decanting are unnecessary, so even the most impatient may indulge immediately upon release. How does this vintage compare to the 2013, which we scored 95 pts? It is very similar albeit slightly less concentrated and expressive.
Caymus does not surprise you; instead, it leaves you abundantly satisfied and fulfills the high expectations of one the most recognizable name-brands in Napa Valley Cabernet. We have no complaints. –R.K.
Our 2013 Vintage Review:
[dropcap size=dropcap]I[/dropcap]n the United States, certain characteristics usher in the autumnal equinox: the changing of the color of leaves, kids returning to school, the debut of new television shows, and football, among others.The 2013 CAYMUS Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a big Cab that pairs well with . . . football. We know, you were expecting us to say “red meat” or “thick juicy steak.” But here’s the deal: this wine has J.J. Watt-like power and Tom Brady-like poise. All the other traits of a Caymus Cab are present, like heightened sweetness, a hint of vanilla, currants, viscosity and ultra-smooth tannins. But, unlike some past vintages, and certainly unlike most gridiron warriors, this 2013 bottling is highly refined. Its beautiful length and solid structure combined with fresh acidity on the finish makes this wine unmistakably high-end and Pro Bowl caliber. You’ll know the instant it hits your palate that slowly savoring this wine is the only way to go. So, the next time you recline in your favorite chair to watch a few hours of uninterrupted football with your best friends, forego the Bud Light and uncork a bottle of this Napa Valley classic, released for the Fall season. There may be no better accompaniment to the wine lovers’ game. –R.K. 95 pts
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