Cabernet Sauvignon has come a long way from its role as a blending varietal. Today it is the most planted red varietal in the world. Identified as a descendent of Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc, the late-ripening Cabernet Sauvignon needs to be planted in warmer climates to fully ripen. Its small berries can easily be identified for their distinctive blue color, thick skins and high tannins. And while the varietal has its own definitive characteristics: green pepper-like aromas and black currant flavors among them, it is perhaps most prized for its ability to convey terroir, vintage and winemaking.

We will taste three Cabs from three different countries:

Montepeloso A Quo Toscana Rosso '20, Tuscany, Italy — The Montepeloso estate is nestled in the hills of Suvereto near Bolgheri above the famed Tua Rita site on the Tuscan Coast, one of the hottest areas in Tuscany. The hot climate often produces over-concentrated wines, presenting a challenge to winemakers. Estate owner and winemaker, Swiss-born Fabio Chiarelotto tackled this by overhauling his vineyards in 1997 and he now grows all of his grapes biodynamically. This endeavor greatly paid off, as Montepeloso has few rivals on the Tuscan coast. This rounded blend contains 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Montepulciano, 20% Sangiovese, 10% Marselan, and 10% Alicante Bouschet from lime-rich, petrified clay and silex soils. This blend makes it complex yet balanced, lusciously dark with hints of balsamic, spice, and minerals. The oak aging is in neutral, large barriques for only four months to retain the wine’s character and terroir while adding texture and softening the tannins. Biodynamically grown, vegan. 14.5% ABV. $30.99/$10.50

Atamisque '18, Mendoza, Argentina — In the Uco Valley located in the district of San José of Tupungato, on the world renowned “Ruta del Vino”, one can see the “Atamisque” estate. Behind a charming stone wall, visitors are welcomed by a grove of poplars. After these first steps in the estate, one will already get a feel of the richness, diversity and peacefulness of this project. Owners John and Chantal Du Monceau work to maintain harmony between leisure, recreation and the sound of nature. One the nose, the 100% Cab offers notes of red fruit jam combined with peppers and an outstanding minerality. One the palate, this wine is full-bodied, and highly structured with pleasant tannins. Notes of red fruits and spices, as well as vanilla, cocoa and chocolate. The long aging in barrels gives it complexity. 14.5% ABV. $35.99/$12

Rustenberg '19, Stellenbosch, South Africa — Stellenbosch and the Simonsberg Mountain range are synonymous with the production of great Cabernet Sauvignon. Just over one third of Rustenberg’s vineyard plantings are dedicated to this variety and it is used through all of their blended red wines, This 100% Cab shows a dark, deep purple color and the nose has classic Cabernet dark currant fruit tones with a floral lift and a touch of cedar and tobacco spice. Medium fuller to fuller bodied, this showcases good fruit concentration in the dark spectrum, while the tannins are noted, giving this a firm grip on the finish. With aeration the tannins soften a bit and harmonize with the fruit. 14% ABV. $32.99/$11

See you Friday!!