As a self-proclaimed travel and wine enthusiast, I am thrilled to share with you a brand-new, exclusive offering from Princess Cruises. The esteemed cruise line has collaborated with Napa Valley’s renowned Caymus Vineyards to present a luxurious and unforgettable Winemaker Dinner for wine enthusiasts and foodies alike. This exceptional experience will be available on Princess ships sailing North American itineraries, including all Alaska voyages, by the end of April, and worldwide by late May.
The Winemaker Dinner, which costs $140 per person, will take place in the Crown Grill specialty restaurant. It will showcase the culinary mastery of Chuck Wagner, the owner and winemaker of Caymus Vineyards. Wagner, together with Princess Cruises’ talented culinary team, has designed an exquisite five-course menu specifically to complement the tasting notes of his world-class wines. Only 12 guests per seating will have the privilege of indulging in this exclusive dining experience, which will be offered 2-3 times per cruise, depending on the voyage length. Reservations can be made once on board.
Sami Kohen, Princess vice president of food and beverage, expressed his excitement about the collaboration, stating that the Caymus Vineyards Winemaker Dinner will elevate the Princess culinary experience and showcase the elegance of cruising. He believes that the carefully curated menu and wine pairings will leave guests with delightful memories long after the meal has ended. As someone who has personally experienced Princess Cruises’ Chef’s Table, I can attest to the extraordinary quality and attention to detail that the cruise line consistently delivers in their culinary offerings.
Chuck Wagner’s passion for wine, family, and friends is evident in his work. The dinner will feature not only the iconic Caymus Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, but also a variety of the family’s other wines, such as Caymus-Suisun ‘The Walking Fool’ Red Blend, Mer Soleil Reserve Chardonnay, Sea Sun Pinot Noir, and Emmolo Sparkling. Wagner is enthusiastic about this partnership with Princess Cruises, as both share a deep appreciation for the connections made over great food and wine.
Caymus Vineyards, founded by Wagner in 1972, has been a family business from the very beginning. Now working alongside two of his children, Charlie and Jenny, Wagner continues to produce acclaimed Cabernet Sauvignons and a diverse array of wines from different regions. The family’s commitment to excellence and innovation remains unwavering.
In addition to the Winemaker Dinner, Princess Cruises and Caymus Vineyards are also collaborating on a refreshed wine menu for the cruise line’s Crown Grill steakhouse. Furthermore, guests can look forward to exclusive shore excursions to Caymus Vineyards in Rutherford, Napa Valley, and Caymus-Suisun Winery in Suisun Valley, California, on select California-based cruises later this year.
Caymus Vineyards Winemaker Dinner Menu
Openings
Beef carpaccio, celeriac, arugula, shaved parmesan, orange zest, balsamic glaze
or
Marinated Fresh Oyster Mushrooms and Wood Ear Mushrooms green pea granita, roasted hearts of romaine lettuce, smoked citrus dressing
Mer Soleil Reserve Chardonnay, Santa Lucia Highlands, Calif.
First course
Fresh summer black truffle risotto, Parmigiano Reggiano aged 36 months
Caymus-Suisun ‘The Walking Fool’ Red Blend, Suisun Valley, Calif.
Main course
Tournedos Rossini – prime beef tenderloin, blossom artichokes
Caymus Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, Calif.
or
Seared King Salmon and Giant Prawn
Peruvian potatoes, baby green zucchini and lemon beurre blanc
Sea Sun Pinot Noir, Calif.
Cheeses
Charcuterie and cheese selection
Paired with guest’s wine of choice from the dinner
Dessert
Chocolate Rasberry Dream – intense dark chocolate mousse, chocolate raspberry cream, raspberry compote, chocolate sacher, Dark Chocolate Cornflake Crisp
Emmolo Sparkling Wine, Calif.
This partnership between Princess Cruises and Caymus Vineyards offers an unparalleled opportunity for travelers to savor the finest food and wine while sailing the world. Mark your calendars, and prepare to embark on a culinary adventure like no other!
