What’s Cabernet Sauvignon and what does it Taste Like?

Hattiesburg, MS

Wine is enjoyed by many around the world, from reds, whites, Rose, and sparkling wine, this popular beverage is available in many different flavors and aromas. But sometimes, it can be intimidating to venture out and try new wines if you aren’t sure whether you will like it or not. So, today on the blog, we dive into the details of cabernet sauvignon to help you decide if you should add it to your next shopping list when visiting Lincoln Road Package Store.

What is cabernet sauvignon wine?

Cabernet sauvignon or “cab” is best described as a full-bodied, acidic wine with strong tannins that mellow as the wine ages. Cabernet sauvignon wines tend to contain approximately13-14 percent alcohol. Since the grapes used to produce cabernets are widely available, cabernet wine typically can be purchased at an affordable price. Grapes used to make cabernets are a hybrid grape, a cross between cabernet franc, which is a red grape, and a sauvignon blanc, a white grape.

Where are cabernet sauvignon grapes grown?

The most popular regions that produce cabernet sauvignon grapes are:

• California’s North Coast, which produces some of the most popular and bestselling cabernets.
• Bordeaux, France – (the “OG” region for cab wines known for blended cabs.
• South Australia – Known for producing a rich, bold flavor of cabs with notes of white pepper and bay leaf.
• Chile in the Cachapoal and Maipo Valleys.

3 Characteristics of cabernet sauvignon grapes

There are three distinguishing characteristics of cabernet sauvignon grapes that relate to its size, ease of growing, aging qualities, and tannins.

• Small and Hardy – Cabernet grapes are small and grow well in most every region, regardless of climate. Cabernet grapes are also notorious for not having issues like plant diseases and less likely to develop insect infestations, making the grapes easier to grow.
• Age Well – Cabernet grapes are also known to age well in oak barrels during the fermentation and aging process, which attributes to the wine’s mellow tannins, flavors, and aromas.
• Tannins – This particular grape has thick, black skin, which are responsible for producing the wine’s tannin.

What is the flavor profile of cabernet sauvignon?

Cabs provide a range of flavors, although the most popular flavor comes from a compound called pyrazine, which gives cabs that green bell pepper flavor. However, many cabs may also be described as having a fruity, creamy, or chocolaty flavor, as well as tobacco, truffle, and cedar. It’s not unusual to taste notes of spice, vanilla, or black pepper. Therefore, as you can see, cabernet sauvignon provides a variety of flavors suitable for many types of palates.

Overall, cabernet sauvignon is known for its bold, thick flavor and many people enjoy sipping cabs with a variety of foods like burgers, steaks, lamb, and distinctly flavored cheese like blue cheese and aged or hard cheddar cheese. There are not any distinct rules for pairing wine with food, although it’s best to pair a bold cabernet with bold flavored dishes and save a lighter, more refreshing wine for lighter flavored dishes.

Best Wine Stores in Hattiesburg, Mississippi

If you would like to learn more about selecting the best tasting wine for your palate, contact Lincoln Road Package Store by calling (601) 268-3677. Our fine selection of wine is suitable for all tastes. For more information or to contact the store directly, please email jamiefarris@gmail.com. We look forward to helping you with your next wine selection!