Wine 101
Cabernet Sauvignon stands as the undisputed king of red wine grapes, producing some of the world's most celebrated and age-worthy wines. From the prestigious châteaux of Bordeaux to the hillsides of Napa Valley, from the terra rossa soils of Coonawarra to the diverse terroirs of McLaren Vale, this noble variety has conquered wine regions across the globe. Yet behind its regal status lies a surprisingly humble origin story—one of accidental crossbreeding, centuries of selection, and the relentless pursuit of quality that has elevated Cabernet Sauvignon to its throne in the wine world.
Red winemaking is an intricate process that brings together tradition, science, and a touch of artistry. Unlike white wine, red wine gets its vibrant hue from fermenting with grape skins, extracting color, flavor, and tannins. But there’s so much more to red winemaking than meets the eye.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step of how red wine is made — from the vineyard to your glass — revealing the secrets that influence quality, taste, and character.
