What makes a cabernet

Its flavor profile can change depending on the climate that the grapes were grown in with warmer climates having a fruitier flavor when compared to cooler climates. The time on the vine can also change the flavor profile. With underripe grapes having more of a vegetal flavor as opposed to fruit flavor.

Some of these differences to the flavor of the cabs are a conscious choice by the winemakers depending on what they are going for. Oak barrels are often used for this process to help enhance the flavor.

Cabs tend to have a higher tannin content which results in the dry taste. This dry feeling you get in your mouth after drinking a Cabernet Sauvignon is part of the reason why cabs are often paired with red meats or other protein rich foods.

The reason for this is that fat cuts through tannin, which helps to clean your palette after every bite. Cabernet Sauvignon wine can be found all over the world, but there are only certain regions that produce high quality, great tasting cabs. The price of this wine can change dramatically based on the location in which it was grown and produced. Wine from this region tends to be more expensive than other regions, due to the fact that they have been producing it for centuries and the land used is perfect for growing.

In the United States, California is known for having some of the best wines in the world. You can then decant it or let it sit in the bottle to breathe for 10 minutes before serving.

The robust flavor and rich tannin content in Cabernet Sauvignon make it a perfect partner for nearly all grilled meats, peppery sauces, and richly flavored dishes. Some ideal wine pairings include New York strip steak, filet mignon, short ribs, Korean-style beef, rack of lamb, hamburgers, salami, and pepper-crusted ahi tuna. For meatless pairings, you can't go wrong with grilled vegetables, including portobello mushrooms, eggplant, and peppers.

When it comes to cheese pairings , look for a firm-textured, complex cheese that stands up to Cab's long finish and rich flavor. Aged cheddar, Gouda, and Gruyere are all good choices.

For dessert, pick up on Cabernet Sauvignon's dark fruit flavors and spicy notes with blackberry, cherry, or blueberry pie, or any dark chocolate treat. Believe it or not, the type of wine glass you use makes a difference when drinking wine. Researchers have found that the shape of a glass affects how vapor rises, influencing how you perceive the flavor and fragrance of the wine.

For Cabernet Sauvignon, a Bordeaux glass is ideal. With a smaller bowl and taller glass than a standard red wine glass, it enhances complex aromas and provides enough space to let the wine aerate. You can also use Bordeaux glasses for other robust, full-bodied wines such as Syrah, Merlot, and Bordeaux wine blends. That said, you don't always need a glass to enjoy good vino. Our Usual Wines red wine blend of Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon — made in small batches from sustainably farmed grapes — is as good as it gets straight from the bottle.

Arguably the world's most recognized red wine, Cabernet Sauvignon has become a favorite among seasoned oenophiles and newbies alike thanks to the rich and appealing flavors, full-bodied mouthfeel, and accessibility all over the world. There's no need to hold off for a special occasion to drink Cab — opening up a bottle and drinking it is the occasion. Whether you're planning a wine tasting party or want to complement your next meal, it's hard to miss with this robust red.

Enjoy Cabernet Sauvignon with a variety of dishes, ranging from hearty meat dishes and grilled vegetables to richly flavored cheeses and chocolate desserts. For more fun and helpful insights to step up your appreciation and knowledge of wine, don't miss our Usual Wines blog. Liquid error: include usage is not allowed in this context Your cart looks a little empty!

As the name of the grape spread, and more people around the world began to grow it, many took to calling Cabernet Sauvignon the great colonizer, as it became the most widely planted grape globally, until Merlot overtook it in the nineties. Apart from its success in Bordeaux, Cabernet Sauvignon saw its reputation take off even further when it was planted in California.

From that moment on, California Cabernet Sauvignon was launched into the world and began to be ordered at steakhouses around the globe.