Cabernet Sauvignon is the second most planted grape variety in the world, and one of the most famous. They produce dark colored, powerful and full-bodied red wines of remarkable quality.
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Cabernet Sauvignon
What are its characteristics in the vineyard?
Cabernet Sauvignon bud burst is late, so it is relatively protected from potential spring frosts. Its maturation is also late and its ideal terroir therefore requires heat for a long period. In Bordeaux for example, it is always harvested after Merlot , and can be subject to autumn rains. However, its thick skin allows it to resist the pressure of fungal diseases, which is increased during humid periods. It thus adapts well to the oceanic climate of Bordeaux.
His love affair with the barrel
Cabernet Sauvignon is a grape variety that lends itself extremely well to barrel aging . Great wines made from Cabernet Sauvignon spend 18 to 24 months in 225 liter barrels, and the proportion of new wood is often notable. The measured contact with oxygen, due to the porosity of the wood, allows the wine to gradually gain suppleness. The aromas and tannins provided by the new wood integrate with the fruit aromas of Cabernet Sauvignon and bring complexity and structure to the wines. These are great wines to keep.
What is the profile of Cabernet Sauvignon?
In conditions conducive to its development and in the hands of passionate winegrowers, Cabernet Sauvignon produces powerful, concentrated and full-bodied red wines, with excellent tannin structure and very good acidity levels. They reveal aromas of blackcurrant, violet, mint, supported by notes of spices (cloves, vanilla) and chocolate provided by aging in barrels. Sometimes austere in their youth, the wines soften with age and gain in harmony, evolving towards aromas of undergrowth, leather, tobacco and truffle. Cabernet Sauvignon wines have a remarkable length in the mouth.
Where to find Cabernet Sauvignon around the world?
Head to France, land of origin of Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon is the star of the Médoc vineyard, on the left bank of Bordeaux. Drained gravelly soils are conducive to its maturation. It is associated with Merlot and Cabernet Franc , which ripen earlier. These grape varieties, particularly in cooler years when Cabernet Sauvignon struggles to reach maturity, soften its structure, providing deliciousness and roundness. Among the most iconic appellations are Saint-Estèphe , Saint-Julien , Pauillac and Margaux , whose prices sometimes reach record levels. It is also found in smaller proportions on the right bank of Bordeaux, as well as in the South-West, in Languedoc and in Provence .
Elsewhere in the world
Its quality potential and its reputation among consumers have made it a grape variety of choice throughout the world. Cabernet Sauvignon is widely planted in California , where certain wines compete with the greatest Bordeaux. It is also present in Tuscany , used in the blend of Super-Tuscans, these Italian wines for great aging. It is also found in South Africa, Australia, China, and on a few dozen hectares in Switzerland !
Wine pairings
Cabernet Sauvignon is the ally of red meats. The proteins in the meat bind to its tannins, to give more suppleness in the mouth. The power of the meat requires a pairing with an intense wine, whose aromas will not be masked: once again, Cabernet Sauvignon ticks all the Wooden boxes. We would therefore be happy to let ourselves be tempted by a rib steak a la plancha and pepper sauce… And you?
