Winemaker Notes

The wildflowers and hummingbird on our limited-edition label of Conundrum Red symbolize renewal and healing, central to the personal journey and music of Grammy-winning singer/songwriter Carly Pearce. Winemaker Charlie Wagner sees many points of connection in their collaboration, which is all about finding your own way: “Grapes need to struggle on the vine to develop character. So do all of us. Carly’s story of resilience, growth and creativity makes this a perfect fit.” Learn about Carly’s world tour at carlypearce.com.

Winery Notes

It all began at the dinner table. Charlie Wagner Sr. – who co-founded Caymus Vineyards in 1972 with wife Lorna and son Chuck – would mix wines to find the perfect glass to pair with his meal. No one blended wines back then, so his experiment was pretty radical. Fast forward to 1989, when Conundrum White was born, quickly taking off with its mysterious, tropical notes and amazing versatility.

Today it’s Charlie Sr.’s grandson and namesake, Charlie Wagner, who keeps Conundrum as inventive as ever. He launched Conundrum Red, a wine that is both lighthearted and serious. Charlie loves how there are no single-varietal rules when it comes to making these wines, and each has a unique style. They also showcase some of the best wine regions California has to offer, from Napa Valley to Santa Barbara County and many places in between.