Cabernet Sauvignon is the grape responsible for the wines of
Bordeaux's Medoc region, arguably some of the finest reds in the world.
This grape performs well practically the world over, as long as
it's not too cold, but in certain appellations in France, and more
recently in California's Napa Valley, it produces Cabernet Sauvignon wines that astonish
with their richness and complexity.
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Cabernet Sauvignon wines are a medium to full-bodied, densely-colored wine,
rich in berry flavor with a distinct herbaceousness. True Cabernet
Sauvignon wines are unblended, austerely tannic, and characterized by the
flavor of tea or herbs, leaves and stems.
Cabernet's complexity is endlessly intriguing, partially because it
melds brilliantly with other grapes. When blended with the Merlot grape
for instance, a softer and more subtle Cabernet emerges without
surrendering its quintessential character.
Cabernet Sauvignon Wine Tip:
The aging process is critical to Cabernet Sauvignon wines. Winemakers often
age Cabernet in barrels of different woods, each imparting a
unique flavor. Some vintners use barrels of different woods in
succession to add complexity. Most winemakers use their smallest barrels
to age a full-bodied varietal like Cabernet Sauvignon. The smaller the
barrel, the more pronounced is the influence of the wood. |
