Unlock the power of Cabernet Sauvignon! This comprehensive course delves into the 'King of Grapes,' covering its origins, viticulture, and diverse winemaking techniques. Compare classic French Bordeaux with iconic Australian expressions from Coonawarra and Margaret River. Develop expert tasting skills, learn food pairings, and understand ideal storage. Gain confidence in selecting and appreciating this global red wine icon.
- What to Drink with What You Eat, Andrew Dornenburg and Karen Page
- A taste of the World of Wine, Patrick Iland, Peter Gago, Andrew Caillard and Peter Dry
- Introduction to Cabernet Sauvignon - The undisputed "King of Grapes" for red wines globally: Its fascinating origin story: a natural cross of Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc in 17th-century Bordeaux; Global prevalence and why it thrives in various wine regions.
- Characteristics of Cabernet Sauvignon and Viticulture: Grape Profile - Thick skins, small berries, high tannin, moderate acidity, robust structure; Aromatic and Flavour Spectrum; Viticulture
- General Winemaking Techniques and Styles
- French Bordeaux (Left Bank focus): Evolution and Regional Highlights; Terroir; General Style
- Australian Cabernet Sauvignon: Evolution and Regional Highlights; General Style; Coonawarra; Margaret River
- Key Differences & Similarities: Discussing how terroir, climate, and winemaking philosophies contribute to the stylistic variations.
- Food Pairing with Cabernet Sauvignon
- Storage Requirements and General Pricing: Ideal conditions for cellaring; Aging; Pricing in Australia
By the end of this course, students should be able to:
- Confidently identify and describe the core aromatic and flavour characteristics of Cabernet Sauvignon.
- Understand the viticultural factors that make Cabernet Sauvignon a successful and versatile grape globally.
- Explain the impact of different winemaking techniques, particularly oak aging and blending, on the final style of Cabernet Sauvignon.
- Differentiate between the classic structural and flavour profiles of Cabernet Sauvignon from Bordeaux (France) and key Australian regions like Coonawarra and Margaret River.
- Apply systematic wine tasting principles to critically assess and appreciate Cabernet Sauvignon wines.
- Suggest informed food pairings that complement the structure and flavour intensity of Cabernet Sauvignon.
- Understand the optimal storage conditions for Cabernet Sauvignon and its potential for long-term cellaring.
- Gain an awareness of the general pricing tiers for Cabernet Sauvignon in Australia and internationally.
- Feel more confident in selecting, purchasing, and discussing a wide range of Cabernet Sauvignon wines.
- Develop a deeper appreciation for the complexity, power, and age-worthiness of this iconic red grape.
