Cabernet Sauvignon Essentials
Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the world’s great noble grape varieties. It is the most-planted black-skinner wine grape in the world. It is the driving force behind many of the world’s most important wine regions, the main component in countless numbers of prestigious blends, and the most recognized and favored red wine on the worldwide market. As the saying goes: Cab is King!
Viticulture & Winemaking
The grape first emerged in Bordeaux in the 17th century as the result of a spontaneous crossing of Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc. Cabernet Sauvignon has thick skins and provides naturally high levels of tannin and acidity, usually resulting in wines with notable structure, depth of color, and potential longevity.
Flavors
Its signature flavors of cassis and black cherry are often accompanied by notes of violets, tobacco leaf, and bell pepper. Cabernet Sauvignon is regularly joined by Bordelais blending partners like Merlot, though it does very well on its own as a single varietal wine and has a real affinity for new oak.
Food + Wine
Cabernet Sauvignon is excellent with hearty red meats, especially those that have spent time on a grill. Well-prepared steaks with savory adornments like garlic, rosemary, and mushroom allow Cabernet Sauvignon to shine -- especially when a touch of finishing salt has been applied.
Cab flies high in the company of aged cheddar, beef burgers, rack of lamb, pork meatballs, beef brisket, and almost any slow-braised meat dish you can conjure. When it comes to presiding over hearty meals, Cabernet Sauvignon reigns supreme at the table!
Did You Know?
DNA evidence shows Cabernet Sauvignon to be the result of a crossing of two other Bordeaux grape varieties: Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc.
