What is Cabernet Sauvignon?
Quick answer
Cabernet Sauvignon is the world's most planted red grape (~340,000 ha), a natural cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc born in Bordeaux. It produces tannic, structured wines with blackcurrant, cedar and graphite aromas and exceptional ageing potential.
Detailed answer
Cabernet Sauvignon is the undisputed king of international red grapes. Genetically identified in 1996 as a spontaneous cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc, it has conquered the world from its Bordeaux homeland.
Its strengths are many: small, thick-skinned berries (high skin-to-juice ratio, producing concentrated tannic wines), late ripening (ideal for warm climates), good disease resistance and outstanding affinity for oak ageing.
In Bordeaux, it dominates the Left Bank (Médoc: Pauillac, Saint-Julien, Margaux, Saint-Estèphe) where it is blended with Merlot, Cabernet Franc and sometimes Petit Verdot. The greatest Médoc wines can age for 30–50 years.
In California's Napa Valley, it achieves a power and ripeness often exceeding Bordeaux, with ripe blackcurrant, chocolate and toasted oak. Napa "Cult Cabs" rival Bordeaux First Growths in price and prestige.
Chile (Maipo, Colchagua) delivers outstanding Cabernet value. Australia (Coonawarra, Margaret River), South Africa (Stellenbosch) and Italy (Super Tuscans) also offer remarkable expressions.
On the palate, Cabernet Sauvignon is recognised by firm tannins, moderate-to-high acidity, full body and a long finish. It is the ideal partner for grilled red meat and aged cheeses.