CABERNET SAUVIGNON
Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are among the most widely grown, widely know, and widely enjoyed grapes for red wine. The flavors and aromas of Cabernet Sauvignon wines include vanilla, currants, and even green bell pepper if made form underripe Cabernet Sauvignon grapes.
Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the youngest grape varieties around — it originated in the 17th century when Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc were crossed. Wine makers grow Cabernet Sauvignon almost everywhere in the world that red wine grapes are used because the variety is so hardy: the grape skins are thick and strong while the vines resist disease and rot.
Cabernet Sauvignon is a small dark thick skinned grape that gives average yields. It needs slightly warmer growing conditions than many other varieties in order to achieve maturity.
Other characteristics of Cabernet Sauvignon wine include high alcohol levels and strong tannins. These strong tannins make it easier to age Cabernet Sauvignon in cellars for many decades.
Grape Variety
Cabernet Sauvignon
Use in Old World
Bordeaux, primary in Haut-Medoc
Use in New World
Pervasive
Color
Dark red with blue hints when young.
Aroma
Bramble fruit, cassis. Often mint or even green pepper.
Body
Heavy
Wine Making Flavors
Heavy use of oak, but incorporates well into the wine.
Blended with
Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petit Verdot, Syrah (Australia).
Other
Increasingly being planted in Italy where it only recently has an official status
Categories:
Red Wine Grapes