Wine 101: What is Cabernet Sauvignon?

June 16, 1:06 PMFood & Drink 101 ExaminerTaylor Olson

Previous Next

Comment Print Email RSS Subscribe

Subscribe

Get alerts when there is a new article from the Food & Drink 101 Examiner. Read Examiner.com's terms of use.

Email Address   Include other special offers from Examiner.com Terms of Use

 

Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the world's most popular red wine grape varieties. It is the product of a crossing between Cabernet franc and Sauvignon blanc during the 17th century in France.

The ease of cultivation is often considered one of the reasons for Cabernet's popularity. The plant produces hardy vines and thick-skinned grapes that are resistant to rot and frost. Cabernet Sauvignon can grow in a variety of climates and types of vineyard soils. It's ability to adapt allows it to be grown all over the world.

Cabernet Sauvignon is typically aged in oak which causes the wine to take on an oaky, vanilla flavor. It is most notorious for its black currant aroma and flavor but may also have hints of blackberry, cedar and violets.
Popular among collectors, Cabernet Sauvignon has gained its status because of the wine's ability to develop in the bottle. During the aging process, new flavors and aromas often emerge, adding to the complexity of the wine.

Cabernet Sauvignon pairs well with steak or dishes with a heavy butter or cream sauce. This neutralizes some of the bitterness of the wine. Bitter foods such as endive or radicchio also work to counter the bitterness of the wine. To match the oak influences, Cabernet Sauvignon goes well with grilled, smoked or plank roasted foods as the wine ages. Cabernet does not pair well with spicy foods; this will enhance the wine's bitterness.

For more information on Cabernet Sauvignon, click here.