Cabernet Sauvignon Wine Guide
Master Cabernet Sauvignon, the king of red wine grapes. Learn about its bold character, best regions, aging potential, and perfect food pairings.
Characteristics
- Full-bodied with firm, gripping tannins
- Flavors of blackcurrant, cedar, tobacco, and graphite
- Deep purple color with excellent aging potential
- Often blended with Merlot for added complexity
Key Regions
Food Pairings
- Grilled ribeye steak
- Braised lamb shanks
- Aged hard cheeses
- Mushroom risotto
Serving Temperature
60-65°F (16-18°C)
The King of Red Grapes
Cabernet Sauvignon reigns as the world’s most planted premium red grape, producing wines of remarkable depth, structure, and aging potential. Its thick skin creates wines with intense color, firm tannins, and flavors that evolve beautifully over decades.
Tasting Cabernet Sauvignon
Classic Flavors
- Fruit: Blackcurrant (cassis), black cherry, blackberry
- Secondary: Cedar, tobacco, graphite, green pepper (in cooler climates)
- With age: Leather, earth, dried herbs, chocolate
On the Palate
Full-bodied with firm tannins that soften with age. High acidity provides freshness and aging potential. Typically 13-15% alcohol.
World Regions
Bordeaux, France
The spiritual home of Cabernet Sauvignon. Left Bank Bordeaux (Medoc, Pauillac) produces the benchmark style - elegant, structured, and age-worthy.
Napa Valley, California
Riper, more powerful expressions with dark fruit, often softer tannins, and frequently higher alcohol than Bordeaux.
Coonawarra, Australia
Distinctive eucalyptus and mint notes alongside classic cassis character.
Food Pairings
Cabernet Sauvignon’s structure and tannins make it ideal with:
- Grilled ribeye or filet mignon
- Braised lamb shanks
- Aged hard cheeses
- Mushroom-based dishes
Aging Potential
Quality Cabernet Sauvignon can age for 20-50 years. Look for wines from top producers and favorable vintages.
Learn More with Sommo
Use the Sommo app to identify Cabernet Sauvignons, track your favorites, and discover new bottles to try.
