If Cabernet is your bae, then today’s your day. Gratuitous rhyming aside—Today is International Cabernet Sauvignon Day! Celebrate this glorious holiday with these top wine recommendations.
Divining Rod Cabernet Sauvignon
Alexander Valley, Sonoma County California
This California wine doesn’t hold back on the rich, concentrated black fruit flavors— sporting depth and character for days. A bouquet of black cherry, blackberry, sandalwood and plum aromas are layered with subtle notes of toasted French oak. Light flavors of cocoa and cola complement the opulent fruit flavor profile. A rich mouth feel, texture and weight from medium-toasted French oak enhance this Cabernet, which finishes with layers of complexity. This is an affordable Cab that tastes like a million bucks.
Novelty Hill Cabernet Sauvignon
Columbia Valley, Washington
An undiscovered gem from a small, artisan winery that’s nestled in the heart of Woodinville, Washington. Their Cab has an opulent taste with generous notes of fresh, plum currant and black cherry that stretch across a long, textured finish. Pairs excellently with meatballs, short ribs, or venison.
Soul Tree Cabernet Sauvignon
Nasik Valley, India
This wine is sure to shatter any preconceived notions that Cabernet Sauvignon doesn’t do well in Indian soil. Elegant and charming, the aromatic notes of red berry are backed by supple tannins. A juicy finish punctuates the tasting experience. The winery is aptly named because this Cabernet has got soul.
Foley Johnson Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley, California
This handmade Sauvignon stands out, and really showcases the beauty of Foley Johnson’s Rutherford terroir. Spellbinding aromatics of dark blackberry, cherry along with hints of mocha and espresso blend seamlessly with the palate. Touches of vanilla and tobacco complement each other while notes of sage and bay leaf elevate the flavors.
Bodegas Castiblanque Baldor Old Vines
Castilla, La Mancha, Spain
This Spanish wine is affordable yet tastes extremely high-end. Bodegas is intense and complex on the nose, showcasing balsamic notes, ripe black fruits, and subtleties of dark chocolate and spices. It is very balanced and palatable on the mouth and aged 15 months in French and American Oak. If you want to knock it out of the park, pair it with game meat dishes like wild boar, hare, or pheasant. One could also use more accessible dishes like olive and tomato with goat cheese, Asian BBQ, lamb, or brisket.
Still on the hunt for the perfect wine to celebrate International Cabernet Sauvignon Day? Ask the wine experts at your local Spec’s, Wines, Spirits & Finer Foods.
