Wine often plays a supporting role to wonderful food, meaningful conversations, and time spent with friends and family. Learning about wine is a lifelong journey, one that continually engages both the heart and the mind. If you’re new to wine, don’t be intimidated. There is always something new to discover. Take it slow, trust your palate, and above all, enjoy the process.
One approach we often recommend to those just beginning their wine journey is to create regular food-and-wine gatherings with friends and family. Meeting once a month works beautifully. Choose three or four bottles of the same varietal, for instance Cabernet Sauvignon from different regions around the world, and taste them side by side. Not only does this make for a relaxed and enjoyable evening, but it also helps you understand how place, climate, and winemaking influence flavor. And there’s usually a pleasant bonus: a bottle or two left over to enjoy with lunch or dinner the next day.
Below is a simple and approachable example for your first Cabernet-focused get-together.
What to Pair with Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon is famously food-friendly, especially when paired with rich, savory dishes. Classic pairings include steak, lamb, and beef preparations such as prime rib, New York strip, or filet mignon. Cabernet’s firm tannins and bold structure also complement tomato-based dishes beautifully. Pepperoni pizza and chicken cacciatore are excellent, everyday-friendly options.
For a vegetarian pairing, consider something equally bold and savory, such as baba ghanoush served with falafel and warm pita bread. The smoky, earthy flavors provide a satisfying match to Cabernet’s depth.
Why Is Cabernet Sauvignon So Popular?
The answer is simple: Cabernet Sauvignon is delicious and dependable. It is typically full-bodied, with concentrated dark fruit flavors, balanced acidity, and structured tannins that allow it to age gracefully. At the same time, Cabernet is remarkably versatile at the table, pairing well with a wide range of foods—though it truly shines alongside red meat. Its consistency and ability to express both power and elegance have made it one of the most widely planted and beloved grape varieties in the world.
A Brief History of Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon’s story begins in Bordeaux, France, where it originated in the 17th century as a natural crossing between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc. This unlikely parentage explains many of Cabernet’s defining traits: the structure and herbal notes of Cabernet Franc combined with the acidity and aromatic lift of Sauvignon Blanc.
The grape quickly gained favor in Bordeaux, particularly on the Left Bank, where gravelly soils and a maritime climate proved ideal. Cabernet Sauvignon became the backbone of some of the world’s most revered wines, prized for their longevity and complexity.
In the 20th century, Cabernet Sauvignon spread across the globe. It thrived in regions such as California, Washington State, South Africa, Australia, and Chile, adapting well to a wide range of climates while still retaining its recognizable character. Today, Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the most planted fine wine grapes in the world, a true international benchmark for red wine.
A Tasting Comparison
Nick Goldschmidt “Katherine” Cabernet Sauvignon 2023
Alexander Valley, Sonoma, California
Bold aromas of black cherries and blueberries draw you in immediately. The palate is rich and lush, layered with black cherry, blackberry, blueberry, and chocolate notes. This wine showcases the generosity and ripeness for which Alexander Valley Cabernet is known.
In Sheep’s Clothing Cabernet Sauvignon 2023
Washington State
Enticing aromas of blueberries and dark cherries are accented by hints of mint, bay leaf, licorice, pencil shavings, and dried herbs. On the palate, soft, smooth tannins and pleasing acidity frame flavors of blackberry, plum, oak, vanilla, and dark chocolate. Balanced and restrained, this wine exemplifies the elegance often found in Washington Cabernet.
Château Blaignan 2019
Left Bank Bordeaux, France
While not 100% Cabernet Sauvignon—this blend is 54% Cabernet and 46% Merlot—it offers a classic Bordeaux expression that is perfect for comparison. The 2019 vintage is gently textured, with ripe, smoky dark fruit and a well-balanced interplay of fruit and acidity. Bordeaux once again overdelivers, offering quality and value.
Backsberg “Four Pillars” Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
Paarl, South Africa
From a region known for producing high-quality Cabernet, this wine is bold and dark, with concentrated black fruit supported by a generous touch of toasty oak. Paarl’s Mediterranean climate lends an Old World sensibility, resulting in a structured, expressive Cabernet well worth exploring.
Final Thoughts
Cabernet Sauvignon is an ideal starting point for anyone beginning their wine journey. Its global presence, food-friendly nature, and ability to reflect its place of origin make it both accessible and endlessly fascinating. Whether enjoyed at a dinner party, a casual tasting with friends, or a quiet evening at home, Cabernet invites you to slow down, pay attention, and enjoy the journey—one glass at a time.