Cabernet Sauvignon Simple Guide for Beginners

Some people love Merlot other Pinot Noir, but nothing can beat the amazing taste of the world’s most popular red wine- Cabernet Sauvignon. Compared to other red wine grape varieties, this grape varietal can grow in almost every region. Due to that, the Cabernet Sauvignon counts as one of the most widely planted wine varietals, derived from crossing Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Franc. The Cabernet Sauvignon is the most expensive wine in California, and one of the most poplar red wines in Bordeaux. And even though is planted in different wine-producing regions, this wine retains its typical intense character.

For those who don’t know much about this wine, Cabernet Sauvignon requires oak aging. The taste comes from the oak aging process. Most Cabernet Sauvignon wines can be consumed right upon the release, however they don’t have the same rich flavor and taste as those which are aged for several years. This wine is known for its versatility. Cabernet Sauvignon suits people who love dark and black fruit flavors, such as black currant, plums, blackberry and blueberry. But don’t be surprised if you find Cabernet Sauvignon wines that feature flavors and aromas of cedar, smoke, vanilla, pepper and spice thanks to the strong oak influence. High quality Cabernet Sauvignon wines display complex flavors of coffee, tobacco, chocolate, earth and herbs.

Cabernet Sauvignon can be classified in four different styles. The easy drinking and fruity style is ideal for everyday consumption. Then, you have the intense fruit style with ripe tannin. You will find a Cabernet Sauvignon that offers integrated tannins and velvety fruit flavors that go perfectly well with all kinds of food. That’s the elegant style. And last but not the least, some Cabernet Sauvignon wines are highly concentrated with firm tannins and offer refined fruit flavors.

Fresh and fruity Cabernet Sauvignon wines go well with light cheeses and aperitifs. Fans of full bodied Cabernets that feature intense fruit flavors should consume the wine with lamb dishes. The other two styles go perfectly well with foods that are rich with proteins. Meats like duck, steak, beef, deer and turkey match perfectly with this outstanding red wine. These meats match the strong tannins of the amazing Cabernet Sauvignon wines.