Cabernet Sauvignon
Red wine grape variety
Also known as Cab Sauv
Cabernet Sauvignon is a red wine grape with signature aromas of blackcurrant, cassis, cedar. Structure: Full body, Medium(+) acidity, High tannin, Medium alcohol. Often confused with Merlot and Syrah.
Recognition cues
First checks
- Look for firm tannin and dark fruit concentration before naming the grape.
- Confirm cassis/blackcurrant character with a structured finish.
Confidence signals
- High tannin with cassis core
- Deep color with cedar support
Aromas
Signature
Common
Occasional
Commonly confused with
Classic anchors
- Classic regions: Bordeaux · Napa Valley · Maipo · Coonawarra
- Classic styles: Cabernet-led Bordeaux blend · Structured oak-aged varietal red
Common questions
Is Cabernet Sauvignon a red or white grape variety?
Cabernet Sauvignon is a red wine grape variety.
What does Cabernet Sauvignon smell and taste like?
Signature aromas of Cabernet Sauvignon include blackcurrant, cassis and cedar. Structural profile: Full body, Medium(+) acidity, High tannin, Medium alcohol.
What blind-tasting cues distinguish Cabernet Sauvignon?
Documented tells for Cabernet Sauvignon: Look for firm tannin and dark fruit concentration before naming the grape. and Confirm cassis/blackcurrant character with a structured finish..
What is Cabernet Sauvignon most often confused with in blind tasting?
Cabernet Sauvignon is most commonly confused with Merlot, Syrah and Malbec. Resolve the call with structure and signature aromas.
Where is Cabernet Sauvignon grown?
Classic regions for Cabernet Sauvignon include Bordeaux, Napa Valley, Maipo and Coonawarra.