Discovery of the Cabernet Sauvignon grape variety around the world

If you are a fearless explorer in search of a bold wine adventure, Cabernet Sauvignon is your ticket to a thrilling journey of flavour. Hailing from lands steeped in history, this grape variety will take you around the world to discover astonishing wine regions. In this article, let’s set off to conquer Cabernet Sauvignon by exploring its origins, the terroirs that celebrate it, the delicious dishes that go with it and the epic estates that bring this iconic wine to life.

The Roots of Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet Sauvignon, which originated in Bordeaux, France, is the product of a happy accident. It is the result of a natural cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc. The earliest records of this grape variety date back to the 17th century. Its name comes from the words “sauvignon”, referring to Sauvignon Blanc, and “cabinet”, meaning a small hut, probably in connection with the vine.

Cabernet Sauvignon is prized for its robust tannic structure, its exceptional ageing potential and its intense aromas of blackcurrant, black cherry, green pepper and tobacco. It is often considered the “king of red grape varieties”.

Cabernet Sauvignon’s Lands of Adventure

Cabernet Sauvignon thrives in many wine regions around the world, but some have particularly stood out. Here are a few of the most remarkable:

• Bordeaux, France: Cabernet Sauvignon is a key player in Bordeaux wines, particularly in the Médoc appellations. The wines of Pauillac, Saint-Julien and Margaux showcase its elegance and structure.
• Napa Valley, California, USA: Napa Valley is renowned for its Cabernet Sauvignons, which are characterised by their richness, their ripe-fruit aromas and their ageing potential.
• Coonawarra, Australia: Coonawarra wines are known for their complexity and long finish, with aromas of blackcurrant, eucalyptus and mint.
• Maipo Valley, Chile: Chilean Cabernet Sauvignons are renowned for their intense fruit, their tannic structure and their elegance.

What do you drink with a Cabernet Sauvignon?

Cabernet Sauvignon is a bold wine that pairs well with many dishes. Here are a few suggestions for matching this grape variety with delicious food:

• Red meat: Cabernet Sauvignon is a perfect companion for steaks, roasts and burgers, highlighting its structure and ripe-fruit aromas.
• Lamb: Try it with grilled lamb, a classic combination that brings out the flavours of the wine.
• Cheese: Hard cheeses such as cheddar, gouda and pecorino go well with Cabernet Sauvignon.
• Dark chocolate: A piece of rich, intense dark chocolate is a surprising but delicious match for this wine.

Cabernet Sauvignon’s Adventurous Estates

Cabernet Sauvignon has its heroes: the estates that make this grape variety into an exceptional wine. Here are a few that deserve a special mention:

• Château Margaux, Bordeaux, France: A legendary Médoc estate, Château Margaux is renowned for its elegant, refined wines.
• Robert Mondavi Winery, Napa Valley, California, USA: Robert Mondavi played a major role in establishing the reputation of Californian wines, producing high-quality Cabernet Sauvignons.
• Penfolds, Australia: Penfolds is an Australian icon, known for its powerful wines, notably Penfolds Grange, which is predominantly Shiraz.
• Concha y Toro, Chile: One of Chile’s largest producers, Concha y Toro makes accessible, quality Cabernet Sauvignons.

Get ready for an exceptional wine adventure through the world of Cabernet Sauvignon. Whether you choose to taste a classic Bordeaux, an intense Napa Valley or a complex Coonawarra, each bottle will take you on a journey through the different expressions of Cabernet Sauvignon.

You will find it in a good number of our tannic reds.