cabernet sauvignon

noun

cab·​er·​net sau·​vi·​gnon ˌka-bər-ˈnā-sō-vin-ˈyän  ˌka-bər-ˈnā-sō-vē-ˈnyōⁿ 

variants often Cabernet Sauvignon

: a full-bodied red wine that is known for its complexity, capacity to age, and tannic structure, that is one of the world's most popular wines, and that is notably produced in Bordeaux, the U.S., South America, and Australia

also : the grape itself

called also cabernet

Examples of cabernet sauvignon in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Petrocchi will also be sourcing pinot noir from the Evans Vineyard, Mindego Ridge off Skyline on Alpine Road, and Luchessi cabernet sauvignon from Saratoga. — Laura Ness, Mercury News, 9 Aug. 2026

The remaining acreage in Lake County will primarily consist of cabernet sauvignon. — Lizzie Kane, Sacbee.com, 29 July 2026

The wine’s name says it all—crafted from old vine cabernet sauvignon fruit, the palate is focused and rich with notes of black cherry, spice, and cassis. — Katie Kelly Bell, Forbes.com, 18 June 2026

Wines lean heavily on chardonnay, sauvignon blanc and cabernet sauvignon, and beers have a mix of local purveyors and macrobreweries. — Kate Williams, AJC.com, 22 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from French — more at cabernet franc, sauvignon blanc

First Known Use

1886, in the meaning defined above