Get to know Cabernet Sauvignon

What is it?

Cabernet Sauvignon (or Cab Sav) is a grape varietal with small berries and thick skins.  As such it produces bold wines with rich notes of blackberry and herbs. Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the most widely grown grape varieties in the world and you can find examples from France, Australia, California and even lesser known regions such as Bulgaria, Lebanon and Canada.

Where is it grown?

Some of the most famous regions for Cab Sav would be Napa Valley, South Australia and of course Left Bank Bordeaux (where it originates). However, Cabernet, with its thick skins and resistance to disease can grow in a range of climates and has found homes all over the world. It can now be found everywhere from Canada to Uruguay and Bulgaria to China.

What does it taste like?

In warmer climates such as California and Lebanon the wines are plush and driven by dark fruits.  Blackcurrant and plum dominate the palate and fine, smooth tannins provide balance on the finish. In cooler regions such as Bordeaux the fruit is more restrained and the tannins are more prominent.  The wines have a more herbaceous note due to the high concentration of methoxypyrazines present in the grape.  These wines are often blended with Merlot (as in Bordeaux) or barrel aged for a few years to soften the tannins.  Wines from Coonawarra, South Australia have a pronounced mint and eucalyptus note that is said to be from the high concentration of eucalyptus trees in the region.

What does it pair with?

The classic pairing would be steak and cabernet but any dish with red meat will work well.  In addition to meat dishes, heartier veggie dishes such as veggie haggis or mushroom Wellington will pair well.  Or, given the rich, full bodied nature of Cabernet, just a glass on its own on a winter evening.

Fun Fact:

Cabernet Sauvignon was born via a crossing between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc.

Cabernet Sauvignon is the most planted grape in the world.