Cabernet Sauvignon: The complete guide
From flavours to food pairings — here’s everything you need to know about Cabernet Sauvignon, one of Australia’s most sought-after red wines.
What is Cabernet Sauvignon?
Cabernet Sauvignon is a dark-colored grape that makes one of the world’s most sought-after red wines. The accidental love child of the Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc grapes, it emerged in Bordeaux, France, in the 17th century and soon became a fixture in winemaking both for being a standout wine on its own and as an ideal grape for blending.
Today, Cabernet Sauvignon is the most widely planted grape in the world. While countries like the USA, South Africa, and Chile have developed their own beloved Cabernets, Australia has also made significant contributions to the wine's global reputation. Regions like Coonawarra and Margaret River are renowned for their exceptional Cabernet Sauvignons, which are celebrated for their rich, dark fruit flavours and bold characteristics
Cabernet Sauvignon sits on the bolder end of the red wine spectrum and is known for its dark fruit flavours.
What does Cabernet Sauvignon taste like?
Cabernet Sauvignon’s flavour profile varies depending on where and how it’s made, but they all tend to have one thing in common — dark fruits. Think blackberries, blackcurrants, black cherries and plums. Most also have some spice, think vanilla and black pepper, and hints of cedar and tobacco from aging in oak barrels. They’re medium- to full-bodied thanks to strong tannins — the stuff in grape skin and seeds that create a drying sensation on the tongue and give a wine texture.
In Australia, Cabernet Sauvignon thrives in regions like Coonawarra and Margaret River. The distinctive terra rossa soils of Coonawarra impart a unique minerality and depth to the wine, while the maritime climate of Margaret River adds a touch of elegance and balance.
Which winemaking regions make Cabernet Sauvignon?
Cabernet Sauvignon spread wildly from its birthplace of France to as far afield as Chile and China. Each region has a different take on the grape, often reflecting their respective climates. Among the most popular are:
California’s North Coast: Home to the iconic Napa Valley, which produces some of the world’s most sought-after Cabernets.
Bordeaux, France: The “OG” region for Cabernet, where the grape is often used in its world-famous red blends.
South Australia: The landscape and climate makes for particularly powerful Cabernets tasting of white pepper and bay leaf:
The Cachapoal and Maipo valleys, Chile: Chile offers serious bang for your buck when it comes to wine and its top-notch Cabernets are no different.
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What’s the best food pairing for Cabernet Sauvignon?
The classic Cabernet Sauvignon food pairing is a juicy steak, especially fattier cuts like ribeye or porterhouse. Cabernet's bold tannins cut through the red meat while the wine's bold flavours complement its savory notes. Vegetarian food matches for Cabernet Sauvignon include dishes with plenty of umami ingredients like tomatoes, mushrooms as well as rich Italian and Middle Eastern flavours.
How do you pronounce Cabernet Sauvignon?
Cabernet is pronounced “kah-ber-nay", with a silent "t" at the end. Sauvignon should be said "so-vin-yawn" — avoid saying "sav-in-ee-on". Pro tip: focus on a smooth transition between "Cabernet" and "Sauvignon". Shorten to Cab (“kab”) if you’re really in a hurry to get that glass.
Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot?
Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot have a lot in common — they’re both titan red wines and, because they’re descended from Cabernet Franc, they share a peppery, savory edge.
The distinction lies in their power. Cabernet Sauvignon is bold, with flavours of blackcurrant, cedar, and spice, alongside strong tannins, making it the perfect accompaniment for grilled meats and hearty stews. Merlot is typically softer and smoother, with red fruits and cherries, and works with lighter dishes like pasta or pizza. If you want your wine to pack a punch, try a Cabernet. If you seek elegance and easy drinking, Merlot's the one.
What are good alternatives to Cabernet Sauvignon?
If you like Cabernet Sauvignon, you’re in luck — there are plenty of them out there to keep your glass topped up. But if you want to shake it up, there are a few options out there that fit the bill:
Merlot: They share some qualities with each other already, but Merlot grapes get richer and closer to Cabernet when grown at higher elevations and aged in oak for up to two years.
Nero D’Avola: If dark fruits are your thing, this Sicilian grape, often blended with Syrah, is a must-try.
Malbec: Known for its deep color and robust flavour profile, Malbec offers rich plum and blackberry notes with a touch of smokiness. It's a great alternative for those who enjoy the boldness of Cabernet Sauvignon.
