Winemaker Notes
A silky scarlet red with luminous highlights, this wine opens with a lean earthiness—the scent of rustic wood mixes with sweet spice, a whiff of cigar box, dusty pavement and old leather, infused with garden ripe strawberries and cherries. The palate is smooth and lively, featuring flavors of juicy raspberry, the subtle tartness of cranberry, and notes of espresso and smoked meat. Underlying acidity makes this wine mouthwatering, while its tannins lend a gritty yet softly fine texture. On the finish: a trace of vibrant cranberry, luxurious cocoa and an extra kick of spice.
This new red wine blend is produced from Suisun Valley, a remarkable AVA that has become the Wagner family’s second home. A 30-minute drive from Napa, Suisun has ideal soils and climate for a variety of grapes. The Walking Fool is named after a long-ago relative who was often seen traveling by foot – thus earning this affectionate moniker. Featuring Zinfandel and Petite Sirah, this wine is smooth and lively, with juicy raspberry, notes of espresso and softly fine tannins.
About The Wagner Family
The Wagners come from a long line of grape growers and winemakers, with a history in Napa Valley dating back to the 1850s. Through the years, they have embraced a hands-on work ethic and are constantly looking for ways to keep improving the quality of their wines.
Whether it’s venturing to different regions to find diverse sources of top-quality grapes or experimenting with new farming techniques, the result is a pairing of tradition with innovation, a respect for the old with the promise of the new.
It’s been over 45 years since Chuck Wagner, along with his parents, Charlie and Lorna Wagner, founded Caymus Vineyards in Rutherford, Napa Valley. Chuck Wagner continues to make two world-renowned Cabernet Sauvignons under the Caymus label from Napa Valley.
Chuck’s older son, Charlie, produces coastal Mer Soleil Chardonnay and a recently released Pinot noir. In addition, he is Director of Winemaking for Conundrum, which now includes Conundrum White, Red, Sparkling and Rosé. Charlie’s latest endeavor is Red Schooner, a rich, dark Malbec made from grapes grown in the Andes Mountains, shipped chilled to Napa Valley and produced in the supple Caymus style.
Older daughter Jenny is winemaker for Emmolo Sauvignon Blanc and Merlot from Napa Valley. Both wines offer a fresh take on these varietals, with a style not typically expected from their production in California.
Never ones to rest on their laurels (or sit still for long), the Wagners feel extremely fortunate to be spending their days in pursuit of making extraordinary wine, year after year and generation after generation.
