Caymus-Suisun Petite Sirah Grand Durif Suisun Valley 2020
Caymus-Suisun Petite Sirah Grand Durif Suisun Valley 2020 is 100% Durif — the grape the world knows as Petite Sirah — from a 750mL bottle of the 2020 vintage, raised 16 to 18 months in new French oak in the Wagner family's Suisun Valley winery. Chuck Wagner added "Grand" to the name for its grand style, and the bottle earns it: a potent, inky Suisun Valley red at 14.5% ABV with deep notes of blackberry, blueberry compote, and dark plum layered over mocha, violet florals, black pepper, and savory bay leaf — silky, dusty tannins and a long finish that whispers dark chocolate and tobacco. Available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.
- Vintage / ABV: 2020; 14.5% ABV — 750mL
- Varietal: 100% Durif (Petite Sirah)
- Region: Suisun Valley AVA, California (Wagner family's Suisun winery)
- Aging: 16-18 months in new French oak barrels
- Style: lush, supple, inky — "rich, supple and totally enjoyable" (winery)
Grand Durif, Grand Style
Petite Sirah was developed in the 1870s by French botanist François Durif — and in Suisun Valley it has found one of its great modern homes. Suisun ("su-soon") sits only 30-40 minutes southeast of Caymus's Rutherford doorstep, a pastoral AVA (est. 1982) the Wagners describe as reminding them of Napa Valley in the 1960s. Their dry-farmed Suisun blocks, thinned to small yields and harvested at elevated ripeness, give Durif its deepest expression here: the variety's naturally fierce tannins go lush and textural instead of harsh. The label artwork nods to the Suisun Valley itself. Shop more red wine or see all Caymus Vineyards bottlings at Del Mesa.
Tasting Notes
A potent Suisun Valley Durif that balances dark intensity with mellow elegance: deep notes of blackberry, blueberry compote, and dark plum, layered with mocha, violet florals, black pepper, and savory bay leaf. Medium-plus bodied with silky, dusty tannins and bright acidity; the long finish carries a whisper of dark chocolate and tobacco. Super-dark, almost inky in the glass.
How to Enjoy
Decant 60-90 minutes — the wine is built for it and rewards it. Pair with grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, pepper-crusted sausages, or a pepper steak; it is a robust, refined companion for hearty fare.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Durif?
Durif is synonymous with Petite Sirah — the same grape, developed by Dr. François Durif in the 1870s. "Grand Durif" is Caymus-Suisun's name for their Suisun-grown expression.
Is Grand Durif a blend?
No — it is 100% Petite Sirah (Durif), aged 16-18 months in new French oak.
What foods pair with Petite Sirah?
Grilled meats, braised short ribs, hearty stews, and aged cheeses — its dark fruit and supple tannins stand up to bold, savory dishes.
An inky Suisun powerhouse — order the 2020 Caymus-Suisun Grand Durif Petite Sirah from Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.