The origins of Cabernet Sauvignon

Whoever hears “ Cabernet Sauvignon ” immediately thinks of the famous Bordeaux classified growths and the countless contenders from around the world who take inspiration from the Bordeaux style

No other grape variety has established itself so successfully throughout the world. It is therefore established today with more than 340,000 ha across the entire planet. It is currently the second most planted grape variety in the world, just behind KYOHO, mainly grown in China. It is the most widespread of all the noble European grape varieties.

Recent genetic studies have solved the mystery of its origin. Unsurprisingly, Cabernet Sauvignon comes from the South-West of France, more precisely from Gironde and therefore from Bordeaux. Researchers have demonstrated that it comes from a spontaneous cross (therefore not caused by man) between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc .

A grape variety with character, Cabernet Sauvignon buds and matures late . The berries have a relatively thick skin on a loose cluster. It expresses a special characteristic smell reminiscent of blackcurrant and cedar. It gives the wine a beautiful intense red color, good acidity and well-marked tannins. In certain regions, when climatic conditions are less favorable, Cabernet Sauvignon does not reach full maturity and produces green wines, with notes of green pepper and aggressive acidity.

As a single varietal, but especially as a blend, Cabernet Sauvignon performs well among others in the famous Bordeaux blends where it goes perfectly with Merlot , Cabernet Franc and other Bordeaux grape varieties. It undoubtedly plays a predominant role in the wines of the Médoc and also in those of the New World, such as California or South America where it produces remarkable wines.

In Tuscany , he contributed to the advent of "super Tuscans".

However, everywhere it requires meticulous aging in barrels which requires a lot of skill so that it does not dominate its partners and also so that it can fully express all its elegance and finesse after a few years of aging.