Cabernet Sauvignon
The world's most popular red wine grape, known for its bold structure and age-worthiness.
Pronunciation
kab-er-nay sew-vin-yawn
Part of the family:
Cabernet FrancIntroduction
Cabernet Sauvignon is the world's most popular red wine grape that originated in Bordeaux, France. It is a natural cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc, discovered by UC Davis researchers in 1997.
The grape contains methoxypyrazine, an aromatic compound also found in green bell pepper, which can produce subtle herbaceous notes in the wine.
Characteristics
High Acidity
Full-bodied Body
High Tannins
Dry
Flavors and Taste
Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits primary flavors of black cherry, black currant, cedar, baking spices, and graphite. The flavor profile varies by region, with Bordeaux wines showing notes of black currant, anise, tobacco leaf, plum sauce, and pencil lead, while California expressions emphasize blackberry, mint, and tobacco alongside the black currant core.
Flavor Profile
Key Regions
The North Coast AVA (American Viticultural Area) includes Napa Valley, Sonoma, and some lesser-known regions that produce outstanding Cabernet wines.
The area became known for Cabernet when, in 1976, an English wine merchant hosted a blind tasting featuring French and Californian wines with France’s top wine critics. Later dubbed “The Judgment of Paris,” Californian wines triumphed, proving great wine could thrive outside France.
(BTW, a great documentary on the Judgment of Paris and blind tasting is Somm III)
Characteristic Flavors:
Serving Suggestions
Alcohol by Volume
13-14%
Medium-high alcohol
Serving Temperature
16-18°C (61-65°F)
Cellar temperature - light reds
Decanting
1-2 hours
Extended aeration for bold wines
Recommended Glass Type
Oversized Glass
A large, bowl-shaped glass that allows bold red wines to breathe and develop their full aromatic complexity.
Food Pairing
The rich flavor and high tannin content in Cabernet Sauvignon make it a perfect partner for rich grilled meats, peppery sauces, and dishes with intense flavor.
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