Cabernet Sauvignon, the king of red wines, holds a fascinating secret. Did you know that it can taste different depending on where it’s grown and how it’s made? Today, I have two exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon wines with me—one from Bordeaux and the other from Napa Valley—to explore their unique characteristics and flavors.
Bordeaux: The Subtle Elegance
The Bordeaux Cabernet Sauvignon exudes a deep ruby color with a hint of yellow, suggesting the presence of Merlot in the blend. As I take a closer look, I notice its legs forming gradually—a sign of moderate alcohol content. When I bring it to my nose, a burst of freshness and tartness greets me. Notes of black cherry, sour cherries, and cranberry dance in harmony, accompanied by hints of pencil lead, crushed gravel, and a touch of spice. The overall experience is wrapped in a delightful hint of mint. Upon tasting, I find this wine to be medium-bodied, gracefully transitioning from savory fruit flavors to smooth tannins. It ends with a gentle bitterness, making it a perfect companion for a mouthwatering steak or a delectable meal.
Napa Valley: A Robust Symphony
The Napa Cabernet blend, on the other hand, presents itself with a darker and deeper ruby color—a result of extensive extraction. Its legs form quickly and plentifully, indicating a higher alcohol level. The nose unravels layers upon layers of complexity. I detect subtle notes of blackberry, dark cherries, and cherry sauce, followed by a captivating spice medley of allspice, clove, and vanilla. It’s akin to the aroma of a freshly baked spice cake. As I take a sip, this wine transports me to a festive Christmas celebration. Its palate bursts with acidity, leading to intense flavors of baked plums and a decadent chocolate note. The spice cake element resurfaces, creating a rich and indulgent experience. The tannins, although sturdy, are balanced by the wine’s alcohol content, leaving a warm, sweet, and smoky finish. This Napa Cabernet is a bold and expressive wine, perfect for savoring on its own.
Embrace the Differences
What sets these two Cabernet wines apart? In Bordeaux, the aging process is relatively shorter, lasting anywhere from three to nine months. It spends just 40% of its time in oak barrels, with no new oak. This results in a wine with a lighter body and lower alcohol content, around 12.5%. On the other hand, the Napa blend is crafted to achieve a higher alcohol level of 14.5%. Grapes are picked riper, and the wine ages in oak barrels for over a year, with 75% of the oak being brand new. The toasting of the oak imparts rich flavors of spice and chocolate, enhancing the wine’s boldness.
If you prefer the old-world elegance, seek out Bordeaux wines with lighter alcohol levels. These pairs wonderfully with food. Conversely, if you desire a wine to enjoy on its own, Napa Cabernet with its robust profile will be your perfect match. Remember to check the label for clues about the aging program and alcohol level—a valuable insight into the wine’s personality.
As I conclude this journey through the styles of Cabernet Sauvignon, I invite you to indulge in more of these remarkable wines. Stay tuned by subscribing to Hook’d Up Bar and Grill‘s newsletter, where you’ll gain a wealth of knowledge about wine—for free! Until our next adventure, cheers!