The most widely planted of the quality 'noble' grape varieties. It is prized as a grape which produces tannic, well structured wines which have an affinity with oak-ageing and the ability to be aged for several decades.
Characteristics: A later ripening variety which has been planted widely throughout the world. In France it is blended with other varieties but can be found as a single varietal in the New World. It has remarkably high tannins as a result of a very high ratio of pips to flesh, which give its resulting wines superb structure and keeping qualities. It produces deeply coloured wines with aromas of mint, chocolate and cassis in cooler climates and ripe red berry fruit in warmer climates. It is also characterised by a smooth, lingering finish.
Where is it found? Traditionally, it is known as a principal grape variety in Bordeaux, though it is also widely grown in other areas of France. It features heavily in the Graves and Medoc communes, because of the high percentage of gravely soil found in these areas, so loved by the variety. It is usually blended with Merlot in these areas to provide 'flesh to the frame', as well as Cabernet Franc for aromatics and occasionally Petit Verdot for spice. Other area in France include the South West area, notably Madiran where it is a vital partner to Tannat; the Languedoc-Roussillon area where it is producing varietal blends with Merlot; Provence, where it is frequently blended with Syrah and in some limited plantings in the Loire.
There are plantings of Cabernet sauvignon in Italy but these are less in area than Cabernet Franc, most notable it is to be found in Tuscany, blended with Sangiovese.
It is also widely found in South Africa and New Zealand (North Island), where it is blended or produced as a single variety. Australia has also widely used the variety in blending with Shiraz, adding a rich softness to the finished wine. California has been much more 'European' in its use of the variety, blending with the traditional Merlot and Cabernet Franc in order to emulate a Bordelais style. Important areas are planted in Chile where it is ungrafted due to the absence of Phylloxera and produces dark, complex wines. Other parts of the world include Eastern Europe, China, Japan, Turkey, Israel, Cyprus, Spain and of course, the Lebanon, coming from the famed Chateau Musar.
Wines associated: All Bordeaux communes, though the percentage of the variety will vary according to Chateaux. Particularly important in the Graves and Medoc areas. Other French wines include Madiran, Cahors, Madiran and wines from the Languedoc-Rouissillon in the form of single varietals or blends.
Italian DOC's include Carmignano, Colli Bolognesi, Trentino, and Colli Orientali. New World wines will usually indicate the presence of the grape on the label.
Food matches: Rich red meats, game such as Wild Boar and Grouse, mature cheese and spicy
[ Email us ] 