Cabernet Sauvignon: Quick Look
The Cabernet Sauvignon Grape
Cabernet Sauvignon is the king of grapes and one of the most recognized red wine grape varieties. California's Paso Robles Wine Country has Cabernet widely planted making up 39% of the region's vineyards. The grape initially attracted attention in its homeland, Bordeaux, for its ability to blend with Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Today the grape produces some of the best wines in the world.
Cabernet Sauvignon is easy to age because it’s a full-bodied wine with medium-high tannins and acidity. To balance this, oak barrels are used during fermentation making the wine feel softer. Common tasting notes include black currant, green bell pepper, graphite, dark chocolate, and cedar. The oak barrels bring out flavors of vanilla and baking spices.
In the vineyard, it is important to harvest Cabernet Sauvignon at the right moment. Too early will make the wine have almost vegetable-inspired flavors. Too late of a harvest creates a jammy or stewed black currant mouthfeel. Young California Cabernets are fruit-forward while older, aged Cabernets have more tobacco notes. Cabs age very well at ten-plus years. It is a personal preference whether to age a Cabernet Sauvignon in your library or enjoy it now.
How to Serve Cabernet Sauvignon
It is important to serve Cabernet Sauvignon the right way to enjoy the full character of the varietal. Open the bottle one to three hours before pouring. Once the cork is removed, oxygen enters the bottle “opening it up” making the aromas and flavors more prominent. Another way to open up the wine and speed up the process is to use a decanter. This method is also useful for removing sediment from the wine.
Another important element to serving Cabernet is temperature. It is best to serve the wine at room temperature or slightly chilled.
Lastly, Cabernet shows best when served in a large glass. More air will come into contact with the wine and further develop the aromas and flavors in the glass.
Cabernet Sauvignon Food Pairing
Cabernet Sauvignon food pairing is best with red meat such as prime rib, filet mignon, or rack of lamb. Try the meats pan seared, or grilled. An alternative pairing would be fish. A pepper-crusted ahi tuna would pair beautifully with Cabernet. Another food pairing would be roasted mushrooms stuffed with a herbed asiago to accompany a Cabernet soiree. Cabernet is a wine that works best paired with food, but can be enjoyed solo with a quiet night featuring a cozy fire, a good book, and jazz in the background. Create your perfect pairing with our Cabernet Sauvignon.
