The Cabernet Sauvignon is most likely, along with Chardonnay, the most well-known grape variety among wine enthusiasts. And for good reason, with 341,000 hectares, it is simply the most planted wine grape variety in the world !
But then, what are the origins of this grape variety? What is the reason for its incredible global success? What are its preferred French regions ? Where is it present in the world? What to expect in tasting?
All these questions will be answered in this article!
Origins and cultivation areas of Cabernet Sauvignon
For many decades, the origins of Cabernet Sauvignon remained a mystery to all.It was not until 1990, thanks to DNA analyses conducted by the University of Davis in California, that the true origin of the grape variety was finally revealed. Of Bordeaux origin, the Cabernet Sauvignon was actually the result of a crossing of the varieties Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc carried out in the 17th century.
Despite relatively recent origins, therefore, compared to some grape varieties like Chenin, Gamay , or even Malbec, the Cabernet Sauvignon has spread across the world thanks to its remarkable adaptability as well as its reputation as a quality grape variety.
Thus, it was first exported during the 18th century within the vineyard of Bordeaux, notably in the Médoc (Pauillac, Saint-Estèphe, Saint-Julien, Margaux etc.) as well as in the Graves (Pessac-Léognan) where it is still the dominant grape variety today.
Then, in the 20th century, Cabernet Sauvignon was exported to many New World vineyards such as those in Australia, South Africa, California , and Chile. Its adaptation was so successful that it has now become the most planted wine grape variety in the world with 341,000 hectares, or 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 vineyards, behind Merlot, Grenache and Syrah but ahead of Cabernet Franc, Carignan and Pinot Noir. Furthermore, while its preferred region remains, of course, Bordeaux where it accounts for 23% of the grape planting, it is also present in Languedoc-Roussillon, the Loire, the Southwest and even Provence.
Aptitudes and aromatic profile of Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon owes its popularity to its remarkable adaptability as well as its ease of cultivation. Indeed, although it performs best in temperate climates, it also adapts very well to warmer climates, such as those of California or Australia.
Furthermore, itsgrapes having thick skins, Cabernet presents good resistance to frost and various diseases.
On the other hand, if Cabernet Sauvignon is so successful, it is also due to its high aromatic quality.Indeed, this one is a product of powerful aging wines with robust tannins . Its classic aromas evolve onbell pepper (red or green depending on ripeness), eucalyptus, blackcurrant, blackberry, blueberry or even chocolate or cedar .
After several years of aging, notes of leather and undergrowth may appear. Furthermore, as Cabernet Sauvignon is regularly aged in oak barrels , this type of wine will then featurespicy notes like cinnamon, vanilla, tobacco, coffee, or even clove.
Finally, while it is entirely possible to find wines where Cabernet Sauvignon is offered as a single varietal, it is very often blended with other varieties to complement its qualities.This is particularly the case in Bordeaux where its two preferred partners are Cabernet Franc and Merlot.
The differences between Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon
Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignonare often compared or even opposed. However, the respective qualities of the two grape varieties ideally merge .
Thus, while Cabernet Sauvignon is powerful and has robust tannins, Merlot brings roundness, softness, and a silky side to the wines. The latter is also renowned for its gourmandise , its aroma evolving on delightful fruity notes of plum, cherry, blackberry, and strawberry.
Therefore, instead of confronting them, let's see these two varieties as complementary : the Cabernet Sauvignon providing structure and aging potential, the Merlot bringing roundness and indulgence.
Merlot Grapes
Pairings and serving wines made from Cabernet Sauvignon
As seen, Cabernet Sauvignon is a powerful and tannic grape variety. Therefore, to pair it during a meal, one would immediately think of red meats such as beef, lamb, or even game , the only dishes capable of supporting the aromatic intensity and structure of wines from this grape variety.On the other hand, it is advisable to avoid cheeseswith Cabernet Sauvignon, as its tannins do not pair well with milk proteins.
However, as the tannins soften and the aroma mellows over the years, it will be possible to pair an aged Cabernet Sauvignonwith finer meats such as chicken or veal .
Finally, regarding the serving temperature , we recommend a range between 16-18°Cto maintain the freshness of the wines while not overly emphasizing the tannins during tasting.
The best wines from Cabernet-Sauvignon
Although it is complex to provide a precise list of the best Cabernet Sauvignons,
- Bordeaux -Château Saransot-Dupré - Listrac-Médoc - Cru Bourgeois Supérieur
- Bordeaux - Château Gruaud Larose - Saint-Julien - Sarget de Gruaud Larose
- Bordeaux - Château Smith Haut Lafitte - Pessac-Léognan Grand Cru classé rouge
- Bordeaux - Château Calon-Ségur - Saint-Estèphe 2ème Grand Cru Classé
- Bordeaux - Château Lynch-Moussas - Pauillac 5e Grand Cru Classé
- Bordeaux -Château Brane-Cantenac - Margaux 2nd Grand Cru Classé
- Rhône - Château de la Selve - IGP Coteaux de l'Ardèche - Beaulieu (amphora)
- Italy - Serafini & Vidotto - Montello e Colli Asolani - Il rosso dell'Abazia
- Provence - Figuière - IGP Méditerranée red
You are now very well informed about the Cabernet-sauvignon!To combine theory with pleasure and practice, all you have to do now is make your choice from the fine selection offered by
