Cabernet Sauvignon

The Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the grape varieties with black berries most famous and widespread in the world, valued for its ability to produce elegant, structured, long-lived wines. Native to France, in particular of the region of Bordeaux, is today grown in almost every wine-producing country, adapting to different climates and terroirs. With its distinctive aromatic profile and its versatility, Cabernet Sauvignon is considered the "king" of red grape varieties.

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Origin and History of Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet Sauvignon is the result of a natural cross between Cabernet Franc e Sauvignon Blanc, which probably took place in the 17th century in the Bordeaux region. Since then, the grape variety has spread rapidly thanks to its ability to adapt to different climates and its resistance to disease. Cabernet Sauvignon is the heart of the Bordeaux blends, where it is often combined with Merlot and Cabernet Franc, but is also the star of many iconic single-varietal wines, in both the Old and the New World.

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Ampelographic Characteristics

• Leaf: Medium, three- or five-lobed.
• Bunch: Small and compact, cylindrical in shape.
• Berry: Small, with a thick skin and a blue-black colour.
• Resistance: High tolerance to fungal diseases and drought, ideal for warm and temperate climates.

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Growing Areas

France

• Bordeaux: The cradle of Cabernet Sauvignon, where it is the dominant grape variety on the left bank (Médoc and Graves).
• Languedoc-Roussillon: For structured, approachable wines.

Italy

• Tuscany: A leading player in the Super Tuscan, often in a blend with Sangiovese.
• Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia: Used for single-variety wines and Bordeaux blends.

New World

• California: In Napa Valley it produces iconic wines, rich and long-lived.
• Chile: It gives fruity, spicy Cabernet Sauvignon wines with great drinkability.
• Australia and South Africa: Intense wines, with notes of black fruit and spices.

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Wine Styles from Cabernet Sauvignon

1. Single-Variety Wines

• Structured, complex and with excellent ageing potential.

2. Bordeaux Blends

• Combined with Merlot, Cabernet Franc and other varieties to create harmonious, long-lived wines.

3. Rosés

• Aromatic and fresh, with a light structure.

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Sensory Profile of Cabernet Sauvignon

Colour

• Intense ruby red, tending towards garnet with age.

Aromas

• Dark fruit: Blackcurrant, blueberry, plum.
• Spices: Black pepper, liquorice.
• Aromatic herbs: Eucalyptus, mint, thyme.
• Tertiary notes: Leather, tobacco, graphite, cocoa (in the aged wines).

Palate

• Structured and full-bodied, with firm but elegant tannins.
• Fresh and balanced, thanks to good acidity.
• Finish long and lingering, with a spicy, fruity aftertaste.

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Winemaking Techniques

• Temperature-controlled fermentation: To preserve freshness and aromas.
• Ageing in wood: For structured, long-lived wines, with ageing periods ranging from 12 to 36 months.
• Extended maceration: To extract colour, tannins and aromatic complexity.

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Food Pairings

Cabernet Sauvignon, with its structure and complexity, pairs perfectly with rich, flavourful dishes.

Young and Single-variety Wines

• Grilled red meat.
• Gourmet burgers with aged cheeses.
• Robust first courses, such as lasagne and meat ragù.

Structured Wines and Blends

• Game and roast meats.
• Stews and braised dishes, such as beef in red wine.
• Aged cheeses and blue cheeses.

Rosés

• Shellfish and full-flavoured fish dishes.
• Chicken salads and savoury tarts.

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Why Choose a Cabernet Sauvignon Wine?

The Cabernet Sauvignon is an excellent choice for anyone looking for wines with character, structure and longevity. Perfect for special occasions or alongside rich dishes, this grape variety offers a unique sensory experience, able to satisfy both enthusiasts and newcomers to wine.