Cabernet Sauvignon

Full-bodied, dark fruit flavors, firm tannins; widely planted in Bordeaux, France, USA, Australia. Likes the sun, needs well drained, warm soil.

What you can expect to taste and smell?

Primary Flavours & Aromas

France - Bordeaux

• long lived wines, grippy tannins when young
• cedar, black currant leaf
• with-age, soft tannins, more expressive flavours
• blends with merlot

Other European Countries

• Italy - blend with Sangiovese
• Spain - blend with Tempranillo

Rest of World

• black currant, black cherry, smooth tannins

Cool vs. Warm Climate

Cool Climate: In cool climate Cab Sav wont ripen leading to astringent tannins and herbaecous notes.

Warm/Hot Climate: Grown in warmer areas, the grape can produce riper, fuller-bodied wines with more pronounced black fruit, softer tannins and full body.

Did you know …
this is a crossing of Cabernet Franc x Sauvignon Blanc

Appellations / Producers of Note

Seek out Pauillac and Margaux in Bordeaux, and Napa Valley in California for exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon.

Age-worthiness

Cabernet Sauvignon offers immediate pleasure with its bold flavors but also showcases its structure when young.

However, the grape truly comes into its own with extended aging, evolving into profound, complex wines that can age for decades.

Meet the author

Damien Saunders
WSET3 award - Has been on a journey to learn more about wine, viticulture since I started travelling. Every country has something to drink.
Find our more about me.