1988 Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

Few wineries in the world can boast such an enviable record of consistent excellence as that of Caymus. There is no doubting that Cabernet Sauvignon is King at Caymus. For nearly twenty years this winery has excelled at producing boldly-flavored, ripe, concentrated regular bottlings and lavishly-oaked, big, spicy, luxury-priced Special Selection offerings. The regular bottling went through a shaky period with the so-so years of 1988 and 1989, but based on barrel samples of the 1992 and 1991, Caymus has two winners for this reasonably-priced, rich, oaky, cassis-scented, medium to full-bodied, supple-textured wine. Both the 1988 and 1989 Caymus Cabernet Sauvignons are significantly less rich and structured, without the concentration of the 1987. The 1988, in particular, is light, although the 1989 exhibits slightly better depth and ripeness. Both wines should be drunk over the next 5-6 years.