Moxie Vino

What is Cabernet Sauvignon?

Cabernet Sauvignon is the world's most planted red wine grape, and it makes full-bodied, dry reds that taste like blackcurrant, black cherry and cedar with firm, mouth-drying tannins.

Cabernet Sauvignon, or just Cab, is the big, bold red on every steakhouse list. It's dark, firm and built to stand up to rich food. If someone says they like 'a real red', this is usually what they mean.

Tastes like
Blackcurrant, black cherry, plum, cedar, vanilla from oak
Sweetness
Dry
Where it's from
Bordeaux, France; Napa Valley; Washington; Chile
Price range
About $10–25 everyday, $50+ for Napa
Serve at
Cool room temperature, 60–65°F
Bodylight → big
Sweetnessdry → sweet
Zingsoft → zippy
Gripsmooth → grippy

What Cabernet Sauvignon tastes like

Dark fruit, mostly: blackcurrant, blackberry and black cherry. Oak barrels add vanilla, cedar, cocoa or a little smoke. Cheaper California Cabs often taste rounder and riper, almost jammy.

The big feature is tannin, the drying, grippy feeling on your gums and tongue, like over-steeped black tea. That's what makes Cab feel 'strong', and it's why it tastes so much better with a steak.

Where it comes from

Cab started in Bordeaux, France, where it's usually blended with Merlot. Napa Valley made it a superstar, and Sonoma, Paso Robles and Washington State all make great, more affordable versions. Chile and Australia are good for cheap, fruity ones.

How to pick a bottle

'Napa Valley' on the label means you're paying for the address, often $40 and up. 'California' or 'Paso Robles' bottles give you a similar style for $12–20. Washington Cab, like Columbia Crest, tends to be a bit fresher and better value.

If big reds dry your mouth out, look for words like 'smooth' on the back label, or try a red blend with Cab in it instead.

What to eat with it

Steak, burgers, prime rib, lamb chops, short ribs, aged cheddar. Fat and protein soften the tannin, so the wine gets smoother with every bite. Skip it with fish or spicy food, where it turns bitter.

Cabernet Sauvignon to try

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Last checked 2026-10-11.