Cabernet Sauvignon Grape
The Cabernet Sauvignon grape is a dark skinned grape that is a variety of Vitis Vinifera used to make full bodied red wine. The Cabernet Sauvignon grape is a cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc that most likely occurred in the Bordeaux region of France. Cabernet Sauvignon is now grown in nearly every red wine growing region around the world. It is the 2nd most planted red grape variety behind Merlot, having given up its number 1 position in the 1990s.
Some of the most famous regions where the Cabernet Sauvignon grape is grown include:
- Bordeaux, France - where it is typically blended with Cabernet franc and Merlot and sometimes with Petit Verdot, Malbec, and Carmenere
- California (Napa, Sonoma)
- Australia
- South America (Chile)
After fermentation, Cabernet Sauvignon is typically aged for up to 18 months in oak barrels. Many Cabernet Sauvignon wines can also benefit from a substantial amount of bottle aging. Others may be consumed upon release but almost all Cabernet Sauvignon will benefit somewhat from some additional bottle aging.
Wine made from Cabernet Sauvignon grapes is typically full bodied with flavors that some compare to dark cherry, currants, eucalyptus, cedar, tobacco, and even green pepper or olive. Not all exhibit all of these tastes, they are listed more to provide a feel for the spectrum of tastes that a Cabernet Sauvignon may display. Some hay also have hints of vanilla that come from the oak aging.
Cabernet Sauvignon is typically served at room or cellar temperature (see: Wine Serving Temperature). Cabernet Sauvignon is a natural for pairing with red meat.
Other Names for Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon may also be known by the following names:
- Bouchet
- Bouche
- Petit-Bouchet
- Petit-Cabernet
- Petit-Vidure
- Vidure
- Sauvignon Rouge
More Information About Cabernet Sauvignon
- Cabernet Sauvignon, from Wikipedia
