Cabernet Sauvignon is a variety of grape mainly used for wine production. Cabernet Sauvignon varietals are one of the most popular styles of red table wine. Cabernet Sauvignon is the principal grape in many Bordeaux wines and is grown in most of the world's other major wine regions, although it requires a long growing season to ripen properly. For better or worse, most wines regarded as the world's greatest come from Cabernet Sauvignon, and world class examples can improve for decades, and remain drinkable for a century.
Cabernet sauvignon grapes are high in tannin and are often blended with lower tannin grapes, particularly Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Shiraz / Syrah. As a group Cabernet Sauvignon wines are generally full-flavoured, with a stronger flavour than Merlot for instance, with a smooth "finish" that lacks the "peppery" bite of Shiraz / Syrah. One of the most characteristic aromas is cassis. There is, however, a great deal of variation in flavor depending on the region, winemaking technique, seasonal weather, and bottle age.
Cabernet Sauvignon is species Vitis Vinifera, and recent genetic testing indicates that it is the result of a cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc.
