Category: Wine Awards

Wine Reviews: Embark on a Journey with these Exceptional Vintages from the Wagner Family of Wine: Caymus, Mer Soleil, and Caymus-Suisun

Celebrating 50 Years of Excellence: 2022 Caymus Napa Valley Cabernet

The 2022 Caymus Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a testament to half a century of winemaking excellence, celebrating the 50th anniversary of Caymus Vineyards.

The Caymus Vineyards was established in 1972 by the Wagner family in Napa Valley, California. Over the past 50 years, the winery has become synonymous with exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon, earning a reputation for producing wines of remarkable quality and consistency. The 2022 vintage marks a significant milestone, celebrating five decades of dedication to the art of winemaking.

Tasting Notes:
The 2022 Caymus Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a remarkable wine that embodies the rich heritage and meticulous craftsmanship of Caymus Vineyards. This vintage presents a deep, garnet color with a bouquet that is both complex and inviting. Aromas of ripe blackberries, cassis, and dark cherries are complemented by subtle hints of cocoa, vanilla, and a touch of tobacco. On the palate, this Cabernet Sauvignon is full-bodied and well-structured, with velvety tannins and a harmonious balance of fruit and oak. The flavors mirror the nose, with an added layer of spice and a long, satisfying finish.

93 Points
Liz Palmer

Accolades and Awards: The 2022 Caymus Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon has garnered critical acclaim, including high ratings from renowned wine critics and publications. It has been praised for its depth, complexity, and aging potential.

Food Pairings: This Cabernet Sauvignon pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, including grilled ribeye steak, lamb chops, and hearty beef stews. It also complements aged cheeses and dark chocolate desserts.

 

Coastal Elegance: 2022 Mer Soleil Reserve Chardonnay Monterey County

Mer Soleil, established by the Wagner family, has been producing exceptional Chardonnay from the Santa Lucia Highlands since 1981. The 2022 Reserve Chardonnay continues this tradition of excellence, offering a captivating expression of coastal terroir, offering a delightful blend of elegance and complexity.

Tasting Notes:
The 2022 Mer Soleil Reserve Chardonnay Monterey County showcases a brilliant golden hue and an enticing bouquet of tropical fruits, citrus, and a hint of butterscotch. On the palate, this Californian Chardonnay is rich and creamy, with flavors of pineapple, lemon zest, and ripe pear, balanced by a touch of vanilla and toasted oak. The wine’s vibrant acidity and smooth texture lead to a long, refreshing finish.

91 Points
Liz Palmer

Accolades and Awards: This Chardonnay is a versatile and opulent wine. It has received a Gold Medal at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition and 90+ points from Wine Enthusiast and Wine Spectator.

Food Pairings: This wine pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes including grilled or roasted chicken, s king crab legs, pork loin topped with pineapple, creamy pasta dishes, soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert, and salads with citrus vinaigrette, enhancing the savory notes, subtle smoky undertones, fruity characteristics, and vibrant acidity of the wine.

 

2021 Caymus-Suisun Grand Durif Suisun Valley Petite Sirah

Caymus-Suisun, part of the Wagner family’s portfolio, has been producing high-quality Petite Sirah in Suisun Valley since 1992. The 2021 vintage showcases the winery’s commitment to crafting exceptional wines from this historic region.

Tasting Notes:
The 2021 Caymus-Suisun Grand Durif is a powerhouse wine, boldly showcasing the depth and richness that the Durif grape, better known as Petite Sirah, is capable of. Picture a glass filled with deep, inky purple goodness, and you’ll have a glimpse of what awaits. On the nose, you’re met with an inviting medley of blackberries, plums, and dark cherries, all elegantly intertwined with hints of mocha, vanilla, and a subtle touch of black pepper. The palate doesn’t disappoint, delivering a full-bodied and robust experience with velvety tannins and well-structured acidity that beautifully balances the concentrated fruit flavors. Layers of dark chocolate, licorice, and toasted oak add complexity, leading to a long and satisfying finish., making it a standout in any collection.

92 Points
Liz Palmer

Food Pairing: The 2021 Caymus-Suisun Grand Durif pairs exceptionally well with hearty dishes such as braised short ribs, grilled lamb chops, stews, mushroom risotto, and aged cheeses.

The Institute of Masters of Wine announces seven award winners and welcomes ten new Masters of Wine

The Institute of Masters of Wine (IMW) celebrated seven award winners and officially welcomed ten new Masters of Wine (MWs) to its membership this week at a ceremony in Vintners’ Hall, London.

The IMW’s annual awards ceremony celebrates the inauguration of the new MWs and recognises individual excellence in areas of the MW examination. Friends, family and Masters of Wine from around the globe flew into London for the occasion to welcome the new ‘MW vintage’, which includes MWs from six countries across three continents.

Receiving their induction tonight were Neil Bernardi MW (US), Emily Brighton MW (UK), Benjamin Hasko MW (Singapore), Christopher Martin MW (UK), Victoria Mason MW (UK), Robert Mathias MW (UK), Dror Nativ MW (UK), Pietro Russo MW (Italy), Tone Veseth Furuholmen MW (Norway), Wei Xing MW (China).

Each new MW received a framed calligraphic certificate, and a 24K gold Master of Wine pin engraved with their unique membership number.

Following the inauguration the individual awards, introduced into the ceremony in 1979 and sponsored by IMW supporters, included two new accolades this year: The Vintners’ Company award for the top performance in the business of wine paper, and the VSPT Wine Group award for best performance in the contemporary issues paper. Victoria Mason MW and Dror Nativ MW both took home three awards, with Emily Brighton MW receiving one. The 2024 awards and winners in full are:

Quinta do Noval award
For the best research paper by a new MW. Presented by Christian Seely, Managing Director, AXA Millésimes. Awarded to Victoria Mason MW for her paper, An investigation into the enablers and barriers to the adoption and practice of regenerative viticulture in Stellenbosch. All research papers can be accessed at: https://www.mastersofwine.org/research-papers

Taransaud Tonnellerie award
For excellence in the production and handling of the wine paper. Presented by Henri de Pracomtal, Chairman and CEO of Taransaud. Awarded to Emily Brighton MW.

Vintners’ Company award
For the top performance in the business of wine paper. Presented by Ann Hill, Master Vintner, the Vintners’ Company. Awarded to Victoria Mason MW.

VSPT Wine Group award
For best performance in the contemporary issues paper. Presented on behalf of VSPT Wine Group by Caroline Hermann MW, IMW Vice-Chair. Awarded to Dror Nativ MW.

Robert Mondavi Winery award
For the best performance across all the theory papers. Presented by Sara Fogarty, Regional Manager UK, Constellation Brands. Awarded to Victoria Mason MW.

IMW outstanding achievement award
Sponsored by the Austrian Wine Marketing Board (AWMB). For outstanding achievement across all papers. Presented on behalf of the Austrian Wine Marketing Board by Caroline Hermann MW, IMW Vice-Chair. Awarded to Dror Nativ MW.

Madame Bollinger medal
For outstanding tasting ability. Presented by Justin Liddle, Managing Director, Mentzendorff & Co Ltd. Awarded to Dror Nativ MW.

In addition to celebrating the new Masters of Wine, the ceremony honoured four members for reaching their 50th year as MWs. John Brown MW, Charles Eve MW, Anthony Foster MW and Bill Gunn MW passed their MW examination in 1974. Coincidentally, John Brown also celebrates his golden wedding anniversary this year, while Anthony’s son was born the day he received his results.

IMW Executive Director Julian Gore-Booth said: “We are delighted to welcome ten new MWs from across three continents, recognise the outstanding work of our award winners and honour our vintage members. This evening’s event celebrates their remarkable dedication, expertise and contribution to the pursuit of wine excellence.

Congratulations to all on your exceptional achievements. We are proud to have you as part of our global community.”

The Napa Valley Wine Train Secures Global Accolades

The Napa Valley Wine Train, renowned for its immersive journey that captures the essence of luxurious rail travel, announces its achievement as the 2025 Global Winner for Wine Tourism Services in the San Francisco/Napa Valley region. This honor, awarded by the Great Wine Capitals’ prestigious Best of Wine Tourism Awards, recognizes the Wine Train’s unparalleled contribution to wine tourism.

As one of the few remaining historic passenger railroads in the United States, the Napa Valley Wine Train provides an authentic and unforgettable experience that mirrors the golden age of train travel. With exquisite dining, curated multi-course meals, and breathtaking views of Napa Valley, guests are transported back in time aboard meticulously restored Pullman rail cars, featuring Honduran mahogany, brass accents, etched glass, and plush seating. The train offers convenient, car-free travel options from San Francisco, enhancing access to Napa Valley for both locals and tourists.

The Great Wine Capitals, an alliance of twelve esteemed wine-producing cities spanning the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, spotlights excellence in wine tourism. The Best of Wine Tourism Awards recognize organizations that exemplify quality and innovation in wine tourism, while promoting rich wine experiences and celebrating cultural heritage, landscapes, and local assets.

“We are deeply honored by this global recognition,” shared Nathan Davis, General Manager of Napa Valley Wine Train. “This award reflects the dedication and passion of our team, who work tirelessly to preserve the history and distinctive experiences we offer. We remain devoted to representing Napa Wine Country and nurturing its legacy for future generations.”

Napa Valley’s delegation includes the County of Napa, Napa Valley Vintners, and Visit Napa Valley, all of whom play pivotal roles in enhancing the region’s wine tourism footprint. The Best of Wine Tourism Awards commend excellence across seven categories, including Architecture & Landscapes, Art & Culture, and Sustainable Wine Tourism Practices.

Napa Valley Wine Train: www.winetrain.com
Great Wine Capitals and Best of Wine Tourism Awards: www.greatwinecapitals.com

Discover Noyan Tun Wine and Spirits Shop in Yerevan, Armenia

We stumbled upon this gem yesterday, just a short walk from our hotel, and were immediately impressed by its well-stocked, beautifully curated selection of wines and spirits. The shop offers an excellent variety of both Armenian and international wines.

Noyan Tun highlights Armenia’s diverse wine regions, featuring everything from the bold reds of Vayots Dzor to the unique varieties of the Ararat Valley.

For fellow Riedel collectors, Noyan Tun carries the exclusive Riedel Areni glass, specifically designed to enhance the aromas and flavors of Armenia’s signature Areni grape.

After my tastings this past week, I highly recommend using this glass when enjoying a 100% Areni varietal—it truly elevates the experience!

Conveniently located at Amiryan St., 12, in Yerevan’s vibrant Kentron district, Noyan Tun is a must-visit for wine lovers exploring the wonderful city.

Website: https://noyantunonline.am/en/

Five New Masters of Wine Announced

Five members of the wine trade from the US, the UK, Norway, Singapore and Mainland China have become Masters of Wine last week, taking the total number of MWs to 421.

The new MW’s will now join the Institute of Masters of Wine having passed all stages are: Neil Bernardi, Tone Veseth Furuholmen, Benjamin Hasko, Victoria Mason and Wei Xing.

They complete the 2024 vintage of Masters of Wine, joining Emily Brighton MW, Christopher Martin MW, Robert Mathias MW, Dror Nativ MW and Pietro Russo MW, who passed in February of this year.

There are now 421 active Masters of Wine based in 30 countries, spanning a wide range of areas in the wine industry.

The MW exam consists of three parts: the theory and practical exams taken at the end of stage two and the research paper (RP) submitted at the end of stage three. The RP is an in-depth study on a wine related topic from any area of the sciences, arts, humanities or social sciences. Completion of the exam seeks to represent an all-encompassing knowledge of the industry, and only when an individual passes the RP do they become a Master of Wine.

All members must sign the IMW’s code of conduct before they have the right to use the title Master of Wine or the initials MW. By signing the code of conduct, MWs agree to act with honesty and integrity and to use every opportunity to share their understanding of wine with others, echoing the IMW’s mission to promote excellence, interaction and learning.

IMW Chair, Cathy van Zyl MW, shared her thoughts on the announcement: “The announcement of new Masters of Wine is always a happy day for the Institute, but more importantly marks a momentous achievement to those receiving the MW title. The journey to becoming a Master of Wine is no small feat and I share my heartfelt congratulations to Neil, Tone, Benjamin, Victoria and Wei. Your dedication, sacrifices, and pursuit of knowledge have led you here. Welcome to the IMW.”

She went on to say, “I’d also like to thank all the MWs who have contributed to our five new MWs’ journeys, those involved in the education programme and examination, as well as those who may simply have answered the odd question here and there, or shared words of encouragement.”

Source: The Institute of Masters of Wine