Today we celebrate that perfect of all perfect wines - Cabernet Sauvignon!
Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the most popular and well-respected red wine grapes in the world. It is known for its bold flavors of black currant, blackberry, and cedar, as well as its firm tannins and high acidity. Cabernet Sauvignon is the primary grape used in many of the world's most famous red wines, including those from Bordeaux, France, and Napa Valley, California.
History of Cabernet Sauvignon
The history of Cabernet Sauvignon dates back to the 17th century, when it was first cultivated in the Bordeaux region of France. The grape is a natural cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc. Cabernet Sauvignon quickly became popular in Bordeaux, and it is now one of the most widely planted grape varieties in the world.
Why Napa Valley Makes Such Great Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley is a world-renowned wine region that is known for producing some of the best Cabernet Sauvignon in the world. There are a few reasons why Napa Valley is so well-suited to growing Cabernet Sauvignon.
- Climate: Napa Valley has a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and cool nights. This climate is ideal for ripening Cabernet Sauvignon grapes slowly, which allows them to develop their full flavor and complexity.
- Soils: Napa Valley has a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and gravel. These soils provide the Cabernet Sauvignon vines with the nutrients they need to produce high-quality grapes.
- Winemaking: Napa Valley winemakers are some of the best in the world, and they use their skills to produce Cabernet Sauvignon wines that are elegant, complex, and age-worthy.
5 Facts About Cabernet Sauvignon That People Might Not Know
- Cabernet Sauvignon is the most planted red wine grape in the world.
- Cabernet Sauvignon is a relatively new grape variety. It was first cultivated in the 17th century.
- Cabernet Sauvignon is a versatile grape that can be grown in a variety of climates. However, it produces its best wines in warm climates with cool nights.
- Cabernet Sauvignon is a full-bodied wine with high tannins and acidity. This makes it a good wine to pair with rich and flavorful foods.
- Cabernet Sauvignon can age for many years. Some of the best Cabernet Sauvignon wines can be enjoyed for decades.
Foods That Pair Well With Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon is a versatile wine that can be paired with a variety of foods. Some of the best food pairings for Cabernet Sauvignon include:
- Red meat: Cabernet Sauvignon's bold flavors and tannins pair well with rich and flavorful red meats, such as steak, lamb, and game.
- Roasted vegetables: Cabernet Sauvignon's acidity cuts through the richness of roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, asparagus, and mushrooms.
- Hard cheeses: Cabernet Sauvignon's tannins help to cleanse the palate after eating hard cheeses, such as cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan.
- Chocolate: Cabernet Sauvignon's bold flavors and tannins pair well with dark chocolate.
If you are looking for a full-bodied, flavorful red wine that can be paired with a variety of foods, Cabernet Sauvignon is a great choice.