CABERNET SAUVIGNON WINE

What does Cabernet Sauvignon taste like?

Cabernet Sauvignon is a full-bodied red wine known for its bold, complex flavour profile. You can expect intense dark fruit flavours including blackcurrant, blackberry, and black cherry, followed by secondary notes of dark chocolate, cedar, tobacco, and vanilla (particularly in oak-aged varieties). The wine typically has firm tannins that create a dry, slightly grippy mouthfeel, balanced by moderate to high acidity. Many Cabernet Sauvignons finish with earthy, woody, or spicy notes. The exact taste varies by region - Australian Cabernet Sauvignon often shows ripe fruit character with eucalyptus hints, whilst cooler climate versions tend toward more herbaceous, structured profiles.

What is the difference between Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz?

While both are popular full-bodied red wines, Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz (Syrah) have distinct characteristics. Lets understand it in detail:

Cabernet Sauvignon:

• Flavours: Blackcurrant, black cherry, cedar, tobacco
• Higher tannins, more structured
• Higher acidity
• Typically more restrained and elegant
• Often benefits from longer ageing

Shiraz:

• Flavours: Blackberry, plum, pepper, liquorice
• Softer tannins, rounder mouthfeel
• Fuller body with riper fruit character
• More immediately approachable
• Often shows spicier, more jammy qualities

What food pairs best with Cabernet Sauvignon?

Cabernet Sauvignon pairs exceptionally well with rich, fatty red meats due to its high tannin content, which cuts through protein and fat beautifully.

Here are a few classic pairings that are a must-try.

• Grilled or roasted beef (ribeye, sirloin, beef Wellington)
• Lamb (rack of lamb, lamb shanks, rosemary lamb chops)
• Aged hard cheeses (aged cheddar, Gruyère, Manchego)
• Hearty stews and braised dishes (beef bourguignon, oxtail)
• Mushroom-based dishes (portobello steaks, mushroom risotto)

The wine's structure and tannins also complement dishes with rich sauces, such as peppercorn or red wine reductions. Avoid pairing with delicate fish, spicy Asian cuisine, or light salads, as the wine's intensity will overpower these foods.

What are the best Australian regions for Cabernet Sauvignon?

Australia makes world-class Cabernet Sauvignon across several regions and each one produces a noticeably different style. Each area produces something noticeably different:

• Coonawarra, South Australia: Famous for its terra rossa soil, producing elegant, structured Cabernet with mint and eucalyptus notes alongside classic blackcurrant flavours. Considered Australia's premier Cabernet region.
• Margaret River, Western Australia: Produces refined, Bordeaux-style Cabernet with excellent balance, herbaceous complexity, and ageing potential. Often blended with Merlot and Cabernet Franc.
• Barossa Valley, South Australia: Creates richer, more powerful styles with concentrated dark fruit and chocolate notes, often with higher alcohol levels.
• McLaren Vale, South Australia: Offers lush, approachable Cabernet with ripe fruit character and softer tannins, excellent value for money.
• Yarra Valley, Victoria: A cooler climate region producing more restrained, elegant styles with higher acidity and savoury characteristics.

Each region's climate and soil contribute unique qualities, so exploring different Australian Cabernet Sauvignons is a great way to discover your preferred style.

How long does an opened bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon last?

An opened bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon will typically last 3-5 days if stored properly, which is longer than lighter red wines due to its higher tannin content and structure. Here are few tips to maximise freshness:

• Re-cork or seal immediately after pouring
• Store upright in the fridge to slow oxidation
• Use a wine preservation system (vacuum pump or inert gas spray) for best results
• Bring back to serving temperature (15-18°C) before drinking again

You'll know the wine has gone off when it develops vinegar-like aromas, tastes flat or overly acidic, or shows browning at the edges. Premium, full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignons with higher tannin levels may last slightly longer than lighter styles. For unopened bottles, most Cabernet Sauvignons can age 3-10 years, with premium examples improving for 15+ years when stored correctly.

What are the best Cabernet Sauvignon wines at Dan Murphy's?

This page is all about Cabernet Sauvignon wines; you can find a huge collection of Cabernet Sauvignon wines from around the world all in one place. We made it easy for you to choose the one you like. Whether you are stocking up for your home bar or up for any special day celebration, Dan Murphy's has you covered. Here are our top recommendations based on the reviews we get from the real buyers. All these have their own fan following and received 50+ reviews on the page and all above a 4-star rating.

• Jacob's Creek - Double Barrel Cabernet Sauvignon
• Pepperjack - Cabernet Sauvignon
• Parker Coonawarra Estate - Scarlett Block Cabernet Sauvignon
• Grant Burge - Barossa Ink Cabernet Sauvignon
• Jamiesons Run - Billy's Shadow Cabernet Sauvignon
• Taylor's Estate Cabernet Sauvignon
• McGuigan - Black Label Cabernet Sauvignon

These are just a few options; explore the entire range of Cabernet Sauvignon wine at Dan Murphy's and get exciting offers along with our lowest price guarantee*. Shop now and get same-day delivery* and 30 minutes* of in-store pickup.