Cabernet Sauvignon

An honorable family

Cabernet Sauvignon originates from Bordeaux, France, and was an accidental cross of wine grape variety between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon blanc, hence the name, ‘Cabernet Sauvignon.’ Its family comprises of the following members:

  • Cabernet Franc
  • Sauvignon Blanc
  • Gros Cabernet
  • Carmenère
  • Merlot
  • Hondarribi Beltza

This grape family is unique and well-known for its red wine tastes and aromas. Cabernet Sauvignon’s importance is present all over the world, as it is cultivated in many other international regions such as Italy, South America, Argentina, and Australia.

Cabernet Sauvignon (Black Berry)

This variety of grape is well-known for its late maturity period; therefore it can prove to be quite a hassle to grow, ripen and harvest Cabernet Sauvignon. Cold and wet regions are not suitable for this variety at all. Cabernet Sauvignon needs an ample amount of sunshine to ripen fully. The grapes are quite strong and are resilient against frost, rot, and other pests that may come along with growing wine grapes. Sandy soils are also preferable to grow Cabernet Sauvignon.

Cabernet Sauvignon Taste Profile

This red wine is rich and bold in flavor, which led to its popularity. It has distinct aromas, and the structure of the wine sets it apart from other wines, making it distinguishable. A few of its key features are mentioned below:

Colour

The Cabernet Sauvignon grape is black and quite thick-skinned. The wine itself is of deep, red color.

Flavors & Aromas

Flavors and aromas for Cabernet Sauvignon depend on the region they were grown in, along with the growing conditions as well. Its main flavors are black currant, baking spices, black cherry, graphite, and cedar. It may also contain notes of plum, blackberry, licorice and vanilla. Cabernet Sauvignon grown in hotter weather may have a jam-like flavor to it. Milder region grown Cabernet Sauvignon will contain hints of mint and eucalyptus as well.

Spice

Cabernet Sauvignon may have a slightly spicy taste of warm spice and black pepper, along with vanilla.

Taste

The wine is dry, and it contains medium-high tannins

Wine Structure

The Cabernet Sauvignon’s wine structure reveals medium acidity, dry feeling, abv of 13.5-15%, medium-high tannins, and a full body.

Other properties

Oak: French oak barrels

Age ability: Cabernet Sauvignon has an aging ability and can be kept for up to 10+ years.

Other flavours: leather, licorice, tobacco, cherry

Serving temp: Cool (60-68°F | 15-20°C)

Taste profile

The typical Cabernet Sauvignon is medium acidic, has medium-high tannins, is full-bodied, and blackberry, cherry, and vanilla notes.

Common regions to find Cabernet Sauvignon

  • France – Bordeaux
  • California – North Coast
  • South Australia
  • Chile
  • Spain
  • China

Summary

Cabernet Sauvignon is a full-bodied red wine delicacy, and its grape variety was quite a pleasant accidental breeding. Its rich flavors and aromas make it stand out, and it is now being grown in several regions of the world. This wine delicacy can be enjoyed with dishes that are rich in flavor, especially meat dishes such as steak, grilled chicken, roast lamb, ribs, or just a plain burger.