A superb quality red that made Howell Mountain famous.
One of Napa's most sophisticated Cabernets, beloved by Bordeaux fans.
The high altitude and volcanic soil produce concentrated fruitiness and firm tannins.
Despite its high price, it has remained popular for many years with its enthusiastic fans.
Randy Dunn, who built Caymus Vineyards during its glory days, began making his own Cabernet in the mountains of Howell Mountain north of Napa, where there was almost no one there at the time.
Due to the high altitude, the area is protected from the famous California fog, but the temperatures are lower than on the plains, and the strong sunlight, cold air, and poor volcanic soil help to produce firm, distinctive grapes that are just the right amount of ripeness.
Randi dislikes overripe grapes and has long been highly regarded for his style, which is clearly different from winemakers who boast rich fruitiness and high alcohol.
Currently, the winery continues as a family business, with their son Mike in charge of winemaking, daughter Christina in charge of administrative tasks, and Randy overseeing them, but they never produce more than the amount that can be maintained by hand to maintain quality.