Cabernet Sauvignon

The powerhouse

Cabernet Sauvignon is the Bordeaux variety par excellence. It produces some of the longest-lived wines in the world. It practically demands maturity: in its youth, this grape tends to be rough and abrasive. But in time, its harsh tannins become soft and silky. Today, Cabernet Sauvignon grows around the world – hardly any variety is more widespread.

Where it grows:

• in Bordeaux

• in the New World, particularly in California and Australia

• in Italy, it is the main ingredient of the legendary Supertuscans from Tuscany

What it tastes like:

• powerful and structured with lots of tangy tannins

• the scent of blackcurrant is typical, along with notes of cedar wood and graphite, sometimes also bell peppers

What it goes with:

• Meat! Whether steak, lamb chops, spare ribs or cheeseburgers: Cabernet Sauvignon takes them all on!