Caymus and Beyond: Wines by the Wagner Family

Caymus and Beyond: Wines by the Wagner Family

When wine lovers hear "Caymus," their minds often jump to bold, velvety Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon — and for good reason. Caymus Vineyards, founded in 1972 by Charlie and Lorna Wagner, has become a symbol of California winemaking excellence. But what many don’t realize is that Caymus is just the beginning. The Wagner family is behind a collection of wines that span varietals, regions, and price points — each crafted with the same dedication to quality.

Let’s take a look at the wines under the Wagner umbrella and how each label brings something unique to the table.

Caymus Vineyards: The Crown Jewel of Napa Cabernet

Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon is a staple on collectors’ shelves and steakhouse wine lists alike. Known for its lush texture, ripe dark fruit, and signature cocoa-dust finish, it’s a wine that feels luxurious yet accessible. Their Napa Valley bottling is the flagship, but the Special Selection — produced only in exceptional vintages — remains the only wine ever to win Wine Spectator’s “Wine of the Year” twice.

Find top picks like the Caymus Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, or celebrate with the Caymus 50th Anniversary Cabernet Sauvignon 2022, a limited-release bottling that honors five decades of excellence.

Belle Glos: Pinot Noir with Presence

Crafted by Charlie Wagner II, Belle Glos focuses on Pinot Noir from coastal regions of California, including Sonoma, Monterey, and Santa Barbara counties. These are no delicate Pinots — they’re rich, layered, and wrapped in the iconic wax-dipped bottles. If you’re looking for a Pinot that stands up to hearty dishes or simply want something plush and fruit-driven, Belle Glos delivers.

Quilt: A Napa Patchwork of Flavor

Quilt reflects the diversity of Napa Valley’s terroirs. This line includes Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and even a dark, brooding Petite Sirah blend. Quilt wines are approachable in price but sophisticated in structure, meant for those who love the boldness of Napa but crave everyday luxury.

Böen: California Coastal Classics

With grapes sourced from Sonoma, Monterey, and Santa Barbara, Böen wines showcase the cool-climate character of the California coast. Their Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are clean, balanced, and fruit-forward — perfect for casual sipping or a well-paired dinner. The name Böen (pronounced Bō-en) is a nod to the farm and vineyard traditions of the Wagner family.

Sea Sun: Sunshine in a Bottle

Sea Sun wines are a celebration of the California lifestyle — relaxed, coastal, and always sunny. The wines, particularly the Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, are made with an easy-drinking, fruit-forward style. You’ll find a soft touch of oak and creaminess that make these wines an instant crowd-pleaser, especially for those just discovering California wines.

Conundrum: A Wine for the Curious

Conundrum White started it all in 1989 as one of the first California white blends to hit the market. Its exact blend is a secret, but expect tropical fruit, honeysuckle, and a crisp finish that makes it perfect for picnics or Thai takeout. There’s also a Red Blend version, which leans into soft tannins and rich, dark fruit flavors. True to its name, Conundrum keeps you guessing — and coming back for more.

Bonanza: Cabernet for Every Night

Bonanza is Wagner’s answer to affordable, quality Cabernet Sauvignon. Made from California vineyards beyond Napa, Bonanza keeps the richness and ripeness you’d expect from a Wagner wine, but at a price point that encourages opening a bottle on a Tuesday night — no excuse needed.

Meiomi: A Household Name

Although now owned by Constellation Brands, Meiomi was originally founded by Joe Wagner, son of Chuck Wagner. Its reputation for smooth, approachable Pinot Noir helped redefine the category for American wine drinkers. With a blend of fruit from Sonoma, Monterey, and Santa Barbara counties, Meiomi remains one of the most popular red wines in the U.S.

A Family of Flavor

From collectible Cabernets to easygoing blends, the Wagner family of wines offers something for every palate and every occasion. Whether you’re splurging on a bottle of Caymus Special Selection or stocking up on Bonanza for the week, you can trust that each label carries the legacy of a family deeply rooted in California wine.

Ready to explore the Wagner portfolio? Whether you start with a classic Caymus or something new like Sea Sun, you’re tasting a piece of California wine history — with a modern twist.

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