Cabernet Sauvignon
– The Global Superstar of Red Wines

Cabernet Sauvignon is the quintessential red wine grape – an unmissable classic, grown from the historic estates of Bordeaux to the top wineries of California. Originating in the 17th century as a spontaneous cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc, its unique genetic background is the key to its incredible versatility: earthy, spicy and fruity notes harmoniously coexist in this noble variety.

The grape produces small, thick-skinned berries with high tannin and anthocyanin content. These give Cabernet Sauvignon its deep colour, robust structure and excellent aging potential. Typically dry and full-bodied, this is a bold yet elegant wine that can evolve beautifully in the bottle for decades.

Aromatically, it showcases dark berries – blackcurrant, blueberry, blackberry – often complemented by cedar, tobacco, graphite, and occasionally green bell pepper and vanilla. Oak aging suits it exceptionally well: French oak imparts refined spice, while American oak adds sweeter notes of vanilla and coconut.

The grape expresses different personalities depending on terroir:

• Bordeaux (France): classic, structured, often blended with Merlot and Cabernet Franc.

• Napa Valley (USA): intensely fruity, rich and silky.

• Chile (Maipo, Colchagua): ripe, spicy wines with great value.

• Australia (Coonawarra, Margaret River): herbal, eucalyptus-driven character.

• Tuscany (Italy): the backbone of Super Tuscan wines – elegant and complex.

Food pairings: Cabernet Sauvignon is a true meat lover’s wine – ideal with steak, lamb, game, or BBQ. Its high tannin content cuts through rich, fatty dishes. For vegetarians, umami-rich meals like mushroom risotto, grilled eggplant, or aged cheeses bring out the best in the wine.

Looking for something similar? Try Carménère (with more acidity), Nero d’Avola (deep fruit profile), or a high-altitude Merlot – structurally similar to Cabernet, but softer on the palate.

Recommended Wines Showcasing the Full Range of Styles:

• • Barons De Rothschild Lafite Légende Bordeaux 2020 (Bordeaux)
  • Chateau Ste. Michelle Cold Creek Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 (USA)
  • Hess Select Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 (USA)
  • Barons De Rothschild Lafite - Los Vascos Cabernet Sauvignon 2021(Chile)
  • Marchesi de Frescobaldi Lucente Montalcino 2020 (Toszkána)
  • Golden Kaan Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 (Dél-Afrika)
  • Jammertal CASSIOPEIA CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2011 (Magyarország)
  • Sauska Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 (Magyarország)

Cabernet Sauvignon is the alpha and omega of red wine – a variety that always delivers structure, depth and distinction. Whether in a classic Bordeaux blend or a bold New World bottling, it continues to surprise, inspire and command respect in every glass.