Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet Sauvignon [Cab-air-nay So-veen-yawN] One of the noblest and most widely recognized red wine grape varieties, Cabernet Sauvignon is used as a straight varietal or in red blends wherever wine is produced . It grows in a diverse spectrum of climates and has good resistance to most grape diseases. Surprisingly this varietal was an accidental crossing between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc. Rich in tannins it has the complexity and strength to age well in the bottle with new aromas and flavors merging over time. South African Cabernet Sauvignon tends to favour more old world styles and typically require six to eight years ageing before they start to develop further flavours although more recently many have been leaning towards more new world styles. Full bodied, its flavor and aromas range from cooked or stewed black currents, cherry, ceder, pencil box shavings, bitter dark chocolate grassiness, mint, spice and eucalyptus.