Cabernet Sauvignon is currently the most widely planted wine grape in the world. Among wine lovers, it is known as a synonym for serious, structured, and potentially long-lived red wine.

Since Cabernet ripens relatively late, it shows the most promise in warmer climates. In some years, it may not achieve full ripeness even in its homeland of Médoc and Graves (Bordeaux). However, in the years when it does ripen, the color, flavor, and tannins encapsulated within the thick skin of this small, dark blue grape can convey remarkable structure, acidity, and fruitiness. In skilled hands, these qualities can, over time, mature into some of the world’s most iconic wines.

The flavor profile of Cabernet Sauvignon is often dominated by almost perfumed aromas of dark berries, especially blackcurrant. This flavor is complemented by a relatively high tannic structure, which gives the wine depth and longevity. All of this, of course, is a very broad generalization, and every wine lover knows that the final character of the wine depends on its quality, terroir, and the winemaker’s signature style.

At home in Bordeaux, Cabernet is usually found in blends. This is largely due to its late ripening, as described above. If there is a risk of late ripening, the robustness and raw character of Cabernet can be “smoothed” with the addition of wines made from the slightly earlier-ripening Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot grapes.

One-hundred percent varietal wines are more commonly produced in warmer climates, such as in Chile, Australia, or Northern California, which have become a second home for Cabernet.

Chile tends to produce bold, powerful wines with a fruity character. Cabernets from this region are known worldwide for being relatively good-value red wines with substantial content.

Australia’s regions of Coonawarra and Margaret River have embraced Cabernet Sauvignon as their primary grape variety. Coonawarra’s Terra Rossa (red soil) and the ocean breezes of Margaret River help create more favorable conditions for Cabernet than in other areas.

In the USA, Northern California, including Napa Valley and Sonoma County, has become Cabernet Sauvignon’s second home across the ocean from Bordeaux. The region’s warm climate and skilled winemakers are known for some of the most iconic New World Cabernet Sauvignons.

Cheers!

In celebration of Cabernet Sauvignon Day, all red wines are with 40% campaign prices from 28.08 to 31.08.