THE Cabernet Sauvignon is most likely, with the Chardonnay , the most famous grape variety of wine lovers. And for good reason, with 341,000 hectares , this one is simply THE most widely planted wine grape variety in the world !
But then, what are the origins of this grape variety? To what do we owe its incredible global success? Which are its preferred French regions? ? Where is it present in the world? What to expect when tasting?
So many questions that you will find answers to in this article!
Origins and places of cultivation of Cabernet-Sauvignon
For many decades, the origins of Cabernet Sauvignon remained a mystery. for all. It is finally only in 1990 , thanks to DNA analysis conducted by the University of Davis in California, that the true provenance of the grape variety was finally revealed. Originally from Bordeaux , the Cabernet Sauvignon was therefore in reality the result of a crossing of varieties Cabernet Franc And Sauvignon blanc made in the 17th century.
Despite its rather recent origins, in comparison with certain grape varieties such as Chenin , THE Gamay or even the Malbec , Cabernet Sauvignon has spread throughout the world thanks to its great adaptability as well as its reputation as quality grape variety .
So it will be exported first of all during the 18th century within the vineyard of Bordeaux , particularly in the Médoc ( Pauillac , Saint-Estephe , Saint-Julien , Margaux etc.) as well as in the Graves ( Pessac-Leognan ) where it is still the dominant grape variety today.
Then, at 20th century , Cabernet Sauvignon will then be exported to many New World vineyards such as those from Australia , from South Africa , of California or even Chile . His adaptation was so successful that it has now become the most widely planted wine grape variety in the world with 341,000 hectares , either 4% of the world's vineyards !
In France, Cabernet-Sauvignon currently covers 50,000 hectares and is the 7th most important grape variety in the vineyard , behind the Merlot , Grenache And Syrah but in front of the Cabernet-franc, Carignan And Pinot noir . Moreover, if his The region of choice obviously remains Bordeaux, where it represents 23% of the grape varieties, and is also present in the Languedoc-Roussillon , there Loire , THE Southwest and even the Provence .
Cabernet Sauvignon's aptitudes and aromatic profile
Cabernet Sauvignon owes its popularity to its good adaptability as well as to his ease of cultivation . Indeed, although this one gives the best of itself under temperate climates , the latter also fits very well to warmer climates, such as California or Australia.
Furthermore, to s grapes having thick skin , Cabernet presents good resistance to frost and various diseases .
On the other hand, if Cabernet Sauvignon is so successful, it is also because of its high aromatic quality . Indeed, this one is product of the wines for laying down powerful with full-bodied tannins . Its classic aromas evolve over the bell pepper (red or green depending on maturity), eucalyptus, blackcurrant, blackberry, blueberry or even chocolate or cedar .
After several years of care, notes of leather and undergrowth may appear. Furthermore, Cabernet Sauvignon being regularly vinified in oak barrels , we will then find in this type of wines spicy notes like cinnamon, vanilla, tobacco, coffee or even cloves.
Finally, if it is quite possible to find wines Or Cabernet Sauvignon is offered as a single varietal, the latter is very generally assembled with other varieties in order to complement its qualities. This is particularly the case at Bordeaux where its two favorite partners are Cabernet-franc and Merlot.
The differences between Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon
Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon are often compared or even opposed. However, THE respective qualities of the two grape varieties merge ideally .
So, if Cabernet-Sauvignon is powerful and has full-bodied tannins, Merlot brings roundness, softness, as well as a silky side to wines. The latter is also renowned for its delicacy , are aromatic evolving on sweet tooth fruity notes of plum, cherry, blackberry and strawberry .
Therefore, instead of confronting them, Let us see these two varieties as complementary : Cabernet Sauvignon giving structure and capacity to keep, the Merlot bringing roundness and deliciousness.
Merlot grape clusters
Agreements and service of Cabernet-Sauvignon wines
As seen, Cabernet Sauvignon is a powerful and tannic grape variety. Therefore, to pair it with a meal, we will immediately think of red meats like beef, lamb or even game , the only dishes capable of supporting the aromatic intensity and structure of the wines of this grape variety. On the other hand, it is good form to avoid cheese with Cabernet Sauvignon, its tannins do not go well with milk proteins.
However, as the tannins round out and the aromas soften over the years, it will be possible to match an old Cabernet Sauvignon with finer meats like chicken or veal .
Finally, regarding the serving temperature , we advise you a range between 16-18°C in order to preserve the freshness of the wines while not marking the tannins too much during tasting.
The best wines from Cabernet Sauvignon
Although it is difficult to give a precise list of the best Cabernet-sauvignons, La Cave Éclairée offers you here a superb selection of wines made from this magnificent grape variety! From Bordeaux to Italy or the Rhone Valley , you will find here all the possible aromatic profiles of this variety and this for all tastes and budgets !
- Bordeaux - Saransot-Dupré Castle - Listrac-Médoc - Superior Bourgeois Cru
- Bordeaux - Château Gruaud Larose - Saint-Julien - Sarget de Gruaud Larose
- Bordeaux - Brown Castle - Pessac-Léognan red
- Bordeaux - Calon-Ségur Castle - Saint-Estèphe 2nd Grand Cru Classé
- Bordeaux - Lynch-Moussas Castle - Pauillac 5th Grand Cru Classé
- Bordeaux - Brane-Cantenac Castle - Margaux 2nd Grand Cru Classé
- Rhone - Château de la Selve - IGP Coteaux de l'Ardèche - Beaulieu (amphora)
- Italy - Serafini & Vidotto - Montello e Colli Asolani - The Red of Abazia
- Provence - Fig tree - IGP Mediterranean red
You are now very well informed about the Cabernet Sauvignon! In order to to combine theory with pleasure and practice, all you have to do now is make your choice from the great selection offered by The Illuminated Cellar ! Of course, we are always at your disposal if you need advice. .until then, cheers!
