Cabernet Sauvignon is the most popular red grape variety! It is widely planted throughout the world, producing a broad range of red wines. Overall, Cabernet Sauvignon wines tend to be full-bodied, flavorful and full of character.
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The variety produces exceptional wines, but if you like Cabernet Sauvignon wines… why not branch out and discover wines with similar characteristics?
4 Delicious Alternatives to Cabernet Sauvignon
Tannat:
This grape variety produces big, powerful, and structured wines with high tannins, even higher than Cabernet! Tannat is the flagship grape variety of the country of Uruguay in South America. If you haven’t tried Uruguayan Tannat, I highly recommend it! In the nose, the wines deliver aromas of plums, licorice and sweet smokiness, perfect for a nice afternoon barbecue. The grape variety is originally from South-West France before being introduced to South America in the 1870s, specifically from the village of Madiran, which also continues producing great wines to this day
Mourvèdre:
A dark-colored, powerful and earthy wine with high tannins and medium acidity. Mourvèdre is produced all over the world but thrives in the climates of Southern France and Southern Spain, where it is known as Monastrell. In the nose, Mourvèdre delivers strong aromas of blackberries, herbs and smoked meat, blending perfectly with a nice juicy steak!
Still thinking about Cabernet Sauvignon?
Aglianico:
Imagine a wine that smells like aromatic oregano and a nice salty prosciutto, what’s not to love?! Aglianico is a grape variety indigenous to Italy, specifically to the provinces of Campania and Basilicata in the south. The grape variety produces bold wines with rich tannins and savory notes. It goes wonderfully with rich and meaty beef stew or some wonderfully cooked lamb.
Syrah/Shiraz:
Syrah and Shiraz are the same grape variety, they are simply named differently based on where the wine was produced. Syrah wines have a very dark color, even darker than the deep purplish-red of a Cabernet Sauvignon. In terms of structure, the wines tend to have high tannins, medium acidity and a full body. In the nose, you’ll get notes of blackberries, herbs, olives and its signature aroma, black pepper.
Malbec:
Although originally from France, 90% of the world’s Malbec today is made in Argentina. It is their flagship variety and the place in the world where the wine has gained worldwide recognition. Malbecs are full-bodied yet also bright and fruity, with aromas of blueberry, bell pepper and baking spices that warm the nose. The perfect pairing for an Argentinian asado.
If you like Cabernet Sauvignon you can’t go wrong with these alternatives. Tannat, Mourvèdre, Aglianico, Syrah and Malbec, jump out of your comfort zone and give them a try!
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