Why Cabernet Sauvignon is Considered The King of Red Wines

Cabernet Sauvignon, a name that resonates with wine enthusiasts worldwide, is not just another red grape variety. It is often celebrated as the ‘King of Red Wine Grapes’, has a rich and fascinating history and is loved by both vintners and wine lovers all over the world. In this blog, we will be diving deep into the captivating world of Cabernet Sauvignon wine, exploring its unique qualities, tasting profiles, and the factors that contribute to its unrivalled popularity.

What is Cabernet Sauvignon?

For many years, the precise beginnings of Cabernet Sauvignon (lovingly called Cab Sav by fans) remained shrouded in mystery. Some theories suggest that it could trace its roots back to ancient and possibly even Roman times. However, these speculations were conclusively debunked in the late 20th century.

A DNA profiling study conducted at the University of California, Davis, in 1996 unveiled that Cabernet Sauvignon is, in fact, a comparatively recent grape variety. The study showed that this esteemed grape is the offspring of two other varieties, Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc, which might beg the question: “Is Cabernet Sauvignon a red or white wine?”.

Despite having white grape lineage, Cabernet Sauvignon, with its beautiful deep red hue, is indeed considered a red grape variety.

Is Cabernet Sauvignon French?

The grape variety is of French origin, stemming from the Bordeaux region, which is renowned for its exceptional viticulture. The birth of Cabernet Sauvignon happened quite accidentally during the 17th century when vine growers in southwestern France unintentionally allowed a Cabernet Franc vine and a Sauvignon Blanc vine to cross-breed.

The result was a grape variety that combined the best attributes of both its parents, the robustness and longevity of Cabernet Franc and the aroma and acidity of Sauvignon Blanc. Worried about getting the Cabernet Sauvignon pronunciation just right? Here is a useful video which shows you how it should (and shouldn’t) be pronounced.

What are Cabernet Sauvignon’s Characteristics?

Let’s have a look at Cabernet Sauvignon characteristics. Traditionally, it exhibits a robust body with pronounced tannins and a discernible acidity that makes it the perfect wine to keep as it ages very well.

The different climates that a vineyard is grown in greatly affect the taste profiles of the wines. When cultivated in cooler climates, it renders wines with a black currant character, occasionally complemented by hints of green bell pepper, mint, and cedar. These flavours tend to intensify as the wine matures. In temperate climates, the black currant notes often combine with black cherry and black olive nuances.

A typical South African Cabernet Sauvignon glimmers with a vivid ruby hue and captivates the senses with a rich flavour profile. Bonnievale Wines Cabernet Sauvignon red wine is a brilliant representation of this varietal. The Limited Release Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 flavour profile boasts fine tannins, touches of spice, and juicy raspberry and liquorice profiles. The River Collection Cabernet Sauvignon features ripe, juicy blackberry and vanilla notes.

How Much Does a Bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon Cost?

As with all wines, the Cabernet Sauvignon price per bottle can vary greatly depending on the quality and age of the wine. Because it is a wine that ages so well, you will be able to find older bottles with a higher price tag, which means it is the perfect wine to add to your wine collection.

Our award-winning Limited Release Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 is selling for R171.00 per bottle on our online shop, and our The River Collection Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 is available for R85.00.

Why is it Considered the ‘King of Red Wine’?

This accidental breed quickly gained popularity due to its adaptability to various soil conditions, resistance to vine diseases, and the full-bodied, tannin-rich wine it produced. It was not only distinct in its flavour profile but also possessed qualities that made it a favourite among vintners. Here are 4 reasons why Cabernet Sauvignon is considered the ‘King of Red Wine’:

1. Adaptability

One of the key reasons for its quick rise to fame was its incredible adaptability. Unlike some other grape varieties, Cabernet Sauvignon had a remarkable ability to thrive in diverse soil conditions. Whether grown in gravel-based soils in the Bordeaux region of France or the mix of sandstone, granite and clay soils of South African wine areas, the vine produced consistently high-quality grapes. This made it an attractive option for winemakers in different parts of the world.

2. Resistant to Many Diseases

Another significant advantage of Cabernet Sauvignon was its resistance to common vine diseases. Its thick, tough skin provided a strong defence against rot and vine pests, reducing the risk of crop loss and making it easier for farmers to maintain their vineyards.

3. Unparalleled Quality

But perhaps the most compelling reason for its global popularity was the quality of the wine it produced. Cabernet Sauvignon is known for its full-bodied, tannin-rich wine with flavours of black currant, plum, and cherry, often with notes of spice and cedar. The high tannin content gives the wine structure and longevity, allowing it to age and develop more complex flavours over time.

4. Grows in a Variety Regions Globally

Today, Cabernet Sauvignon is grown in nearly every major wine-producing country. In its home country of France, it is a key component of the esteemed Bordeaux blends. In Italy, it’s often used in Super Tuscan wines. Australia’s Coonawarra region is famed for its unique expression of the varietal, while in Chile, the grape is often blended with Carménère. Meanwhile, in the United States, particularly in California, it is very popular. 

The accidental birth of Cabernet Sauvignon resulted in a grape variety that is now a cornerstone of the global wine industry, celebrated for its adaptability, resilience, and the exceptional wine that it produces.

What Makes Bonnievale Wines Cabernet Sauvignon So Special?

The Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 Limited Release recently won awards at the prestigious Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Awards and is rated as one of the best Cabernet Sauvignon in South Africa. It received an incredible score of 93 out of 100 and was awarded a double gold medal. It also won gold at the Cabernet Sauvignon Challenge and was included in the National Wine Challenge (NWC) Top 100 wines of 2023.

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Buy Bonnievale Wines Limited Release 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon right here from our online store. Our wines are also available from various stockists countrywide.