It is claimed that Cabernet Sauvignon is the most popular wine in the world. It is famous for its dry, bold, powerful flavour, medium acidity and rich fruit flavours. Cabernet Sauvignon has high tannins, which combined with thick skins, gives it great ageing potential.

Cabernet Sauvignon originated in the Bordeaux region of France. There, it is usually blended with other varieties such as Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec to create Bordeaux Wine. Today Cabernet Sauvignon is grown in many wine regions around the world, including Australia, South Africa, Chile, Spain, the U.S. and Canada.

The flavours and aromas vary depending on which region the Cabernet Sauvignon comes from. However, there are some characteristics that are consistent across all regions. It will always have intense, dark fruit flavours such as blackcurrant and cherry, as well as notes of baking spices. Some Cabernet Sauvignons are fruity, while others are savory and smoky. It will depend on where the Cabernet Sauvignon is grown and how the wine is made. For example:

• Cabernet Sauvignon from Bordeaux, France will contain flavours and notes of blackcurrant, anise, tobacco leaf, plum sauce and pencil lead.
• Australian wines will have notes of black plum, white pepper, chocolate and bay leaf.
• Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon will have hints of blackberry, black cherry, fig, baking spices and green peppercorn.

With its intense rich flavours, Cabernet Sauvignon will pair well with steaks, burgers, strong cheeses and dark chocolate desserts.

It is up to you to decide which part of the world produces the Cabernet Sauvignon best suited to your taste. Personally, both the traditional Bordeaux wines and Australia’s Cabernet Sauvignons have had the most appeal to me. Unfortunately, even though Cabernet Sauvignon is grown in Canada, the growing season in this northern climate is not long enough to allow the grapes to achieve their full flavour potential.

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