Cabernet Sauvignon: The King of Reds
Ordering a cab? We know you don’t mean a taxi -- of course, it’s a Cabernet Sauvignon. There are several different types of cabs – such as Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Gros – but it’s Cabernet Sauvignon that has become synonymous with cab. And for a good reason.
Bow down to the King of Reds!
While many wines are explicitly made in one or two regions, Cabernet Sauvignon is such a versatile grape that winemakers around the globe love it. It’s the most widely planted wine grape in the world. It began in the Bordeaux region of France, but now it’s a mainstay in many countries, including the U.S., Chili, Argentina, Australia, and even China.
The truth about Cabernet Sauvignon’s origin wasn’t discovered until the mid-1990s when DNA testing was performed on many wine varieties. The results showed that Cabernet Sauvignon’s lineage combines Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc. Testing also revealed that it’s a distant relative of Merlot, also created using Cabernet Franc. This might explain why many people find Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot similar in taste.
So this is what royalty tastes like…
Experts describe the flavor as having the essence of cassis or black currant berries, black pepper, and green peppercorn. It can range from light and fruity for the less expensive bottles to a deep minerality and smoky flavor for the more refined wines.
Cabernet Sauvignon is relatively high in tannins, making it a perfect partner for steak and other grilled meats. Pair it with a charcuterie board filled with cured meats, olives, and creamy cheeses for a taste of heaven. Being high in tannins, you’ll find that it’s used often in a blend with one that’s less tannic such as Merlot or Syrah.
Mark your calendar! The Thursday before Labor Day (that would be Sept. 1, 2022) is the official International Cabernet Day! This is a day to celebrate all things Cabernet in its twelfth year.
Another reason to mark your calendar! Join the Boston Winery on August 18th for our exceptional Charcuterie and Wine Pairing to discover more delicious pairings and exciting details about Cabernet Sauvignon – the true king of reds.
