Conundrum California White Blend
Conundrum California White Blend is a 750mL, ~13.5% ABV white wine from the Wagner Family of Wine — the Napa family behind Caymus Vineyards — born over 25 years ago as a bold experiment when blending white varietals in California was almost unthinkable. Every vintage blends Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Muscat Canelli, and Viognier (exact proportions kept secret), drawing fruit from sought-after AVAs from Napa Valley south to Santa Barbara County. Exotic, bright, and endlessly versatile. Available to order online from Del Mesa Liquor in San Diego, CA.
- ABV: ~13.5% (varies slightly by vintage; 2022 = 13.6%)
- Size: 750mL
- Blend: Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Muscat Canelli, Viognier — exact proportions secret
- Origin: California — sourced from Napa, Monterey, Santa Barbara, San Benito, Solano, and Tulare Counties
- Production: stainless steel with a small amount of neutral French oak to keep fresh, citrus-driven aromatics; touch of oak aging
The Blend That Started as a Conundrum
Conundrum began when the late Charlie Wagner Sr., co-founder of Caymus Vineyards, started blending wines at the table to find the perfect pairing for his meal — an idea so unusual at the time that the wine became the puzzle its name describes. Today, grandson Charlie Wagner is Director of Winemaking for Conundrum, and the wine has earned a loyal following over 25+ vintages, including Silver medals at the Sakura Awards for the 2021 and 2022 releases. Explore more Conundrum Wines or browse the store's white wine collection and all wines.
Tasting Notes
Apricot, pear, and honeysuckle on the nose, with orange and lemon meringue pie if you pay attention. Initial sweetness is balanced by natural acidity, and a hint of oak plays with flavors of peach, apple, and citrus — rich Chardonnay weight up front lightening into fresh Sauvignon Blanc citrus on the finish.
How to Enjoy
Best served chilled, around 8–10°C. Pour with roast chicken, creamy pastas, seafood, or soft cheeses — it is an amazingly versatile food wine, and it works just as well on its own on a warm evening.
Frequently Asked Questions
What grapes are in Conundrum California White Blend?Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Muscat Canelli, and Viognier — every vintage includes all five, but the exact proportions are kept secret.
Who makes Conundrum wine?The Wagner Family of Wine — the Napa family behind Caymus Vineyards (founded 1972). Winemaker Charlie Wagner is Director of Winemaking for Conundrum.
Is Conundrum White a sweet wine?No — it shows an initial touch of sweetness from the ripe fruit, but natural acidity keeps it balanced and dry-feeling; best served chilled.
What does Conundrum White pair with?Roast chicken, seafood, creamy pastas, soft cheeses — its tropical notes and fresh acidity make it one of the most versatile whites in the store.
Twenty-five years of blending and the puzzle keeps pouring — order Conundrum California White Blend online at Del Mesa Liquor in San Diego, CA.