History and Viticulture

Although the Cabernet Sauvignon is rumored to have an ancient history, the grape was officially typed and classified in 1966 by the University of UC Davis. It was here that scientists discovered Cab was a genetic cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc. Today Cabernet Sauvignon is grown in every continent of the world and one of the most widely recognized wines.

Because it is so widely grown, Cabernet can thrive in many different soil types; however, the growth and resulting flavors are easily influenced by the weather. For example, Cab is traditionally one of the last grapes picked off the vines in California. The cool mornings and sunny afternoons allow for slow and full ripening of the grapes. This growth pattern yields healthy grapes to create big bold 100% Cabernet Sauvignon varietal wines. In contrast, Bordeaux, France is often threatened with unfavorable weather towards the tail end of the grape growing season and forced to harvest the Cabernet grapes early. When the grape maturity is shortened, the wine will yield different flavors making it a great wine for a Bordeaux blend but not recommended for a single varietal wine.

Winemaking

Cabernet grapes have a high ratio of seed to pulp. This means that a long exposure of the grape juice (must) to the seeds prior to and during fermentation can result in a highly tannic wine. To help soften these tannins, Cab is classically aged in oak barrels. The oak contact helps to soften the tannins and add softer notes (vanilla and baking spice) to contrast the characteristic tobacco and blackcurrant aromatics of a Cabernet.

Untamed Cabernet Sauvignons:

San Benito

Monterey is known for producing stellar wines because of the slow ripening periods during the harvest season. Morning fog blankets the area keeping the grapes cold and dormant during the night. By mid-day the fog evaporates, and sun continues the grape maturation. Slow development is important during a grape’s journey because it maintains natural acidity. This Cabernet was farmed in an organic vineyard and produced with a classic style in mind: a wine simply highlighting the greatness of the Cabernet Sauvignon grape. This Cab is approachable and sincere. Aged 24 months in French oak.

Coombsville: Proprietor’s Reserve

In addition to the ideal location in the Coombsville AVA of Napa, this vineyard is highly maintained and very sought after. The 2020 harvest season was challenging due to the fires that plagued Napa and limited the resources to the area; however, our grapes largely remained unaffected. From grape to bottle, our Proprietor’s Cabernet was intensely respected. After hand harvesting, we took special care during extraction and fermentation to craft a rich but approachable wine. We titled this Cabernet a Proprietor’s Reserve because producing a wine of this quality is thrilling and the best representation of our passion for the industry. Aged 30 months in French oak. This is your traditional powerful, bold Napa Cabernet Sauvignon.

In the spirit of National Cabernet Sauvignon Day, visit our Red Wine page on our website and take our Cab quiz.

Or purchase your favorite Cab at a discounted rate! Use code “CABDAY” on checkout. Offer available until 8/31/24.

Test your knowledge here: https://www.untamedwines.com/wines/red-wines/