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ThuAug 29

International Cabernet Day – August 29, 2024

International Cabernet Day is celebrated on the Thursday before U.S. Labor Day, and this year it falls on August 29. It is a special day that is dedicated to one of the world’s most popular wines — Cabernet. There are two styles of Cabernet. There is Cabernet Franc, a heritage grape from Bordeaux that is grown throughout the world, and Cabernet Sauvignon, a cross between Cabernet Franc and the white Sauvignon Blanc grapes. Cabernet, being one of the world’s most popular red wine grape varieties, is grown in every major wine-producing region in the world.

History of International Cabernet Day

The idea for the International Cabernet Day came in 2010, when the NoCal and Twitter user, Rick Bakas, got a bunch of Napa Wineries together. Although it was initially started as a marketing tool, it quickly turned into a holiday.

Cabernet Sauvignon was developed by accident in the 17th century when a red Cabernet Franc grape plant bred with a white Sauvignon Blan grape plant in a French vineyard. Cabernet has been around for hundreds of years, but it is still pretty young compared to other wine varietals. Some people argue that it is a half-sibling to Merlot. So, if you have ever had trouble differentiating between a glass of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, don’t feel bad! They are closely related and it is very difficult to tell the difference.

One surprising and sweet thing about Cabernet Sauvignon is that everybody loves it. Cabernet is a timeless classic. There is also a reason why Cabernet tastes great with anything on any occasion. Researchers studying the effects of taste and food on the tongue found that the tannins in Cabernet act as ‘scrapers’ for fats and proteins that collect on the tongue from the food you eat. So, any fatty and protein-rich food you consume with wine will be enhanced in taste with Cabernet.

Today, France is the largest producer of Cabernet Sauvignon in the world. With a whopping 126,000 acres of Cabernet grown in France, it is still the fourth most planted grape in the country.

International Cabernet Day timeline

1600s
The First Mention

Cabernet Sauvignon is mentioned for the first time in history.

1996
The World Learns About Cabernet Sauvignon

The world learns that Cabernet Sauvignon is the child of Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc.

1997
An Important Discovery

Researchers discover the natural cross grape from Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc.

2010
The First Official Holiday

Rick Bakas commemorates the first International Cabernet Day.

International Cabernet Day FAQs

What is the difference between Cabernet and red wine?

Red wines get their color and much of their texture and flavor from the grape skins. The thicker skins of Cabernet create a rich, concentrated, purple-black, full-bodied wine that does best in warm climates.

What is the difference between Merlot and Cabernet?

The main difference between Merlot and Cabernet is the levels of tannins and acidity. Merlot is typically in the middle for both tannins and acidity, whereas Cabernet is very high in both.

Is there a difference between Cabernet and Cabernet Sauvignon?

Cabernet Sauvignon is often referred to as just Cab, Cabernet, Cab Sauv, and many other names. One thing you need to know is that there is no grape called Cabernet.

International Cabernet Day Activities

  1. Appreciate it

    The best thing you can do to celebrate International Cabernet Day is by appreciating fine wine. Whether you like Cabernet or any other varieties of wine, appreciate it and enjoy the goodness.

  2. Taste it

    If you are looking for a sign to taste Cabernet and haven’t had this kind of wine before, today is the perfect day for first introductions. Invite your friends, family, and colleagues and make it a party.

  3. Share it

    Even if you’re not much of a drinker, you can give Cabernet a try anyway. It is considered one of the tastiest wines by many. So, if you have any stories like these, share them on social media.

5 Cool Things To Know About Cabernet

  1. It’s the most planted wine grape

    Cabernet is the most planted wine grape in the world.

  2. It involves heavy cash

    Wineries in Napa Valley pay more for Cabernet Sauvignon grapes.

  3. Stock market

    Cabernet Sauvignon wines are tracked and traded like stocks.

  4. It took over China too

    Cabernet is one of the most important varieties in China too.

  5. People notice it a lot

    Cabernet is the most reviewed red wine variety in the Wine Spectator’s database.

Why We Love International Cabernet Day

  1. It’s a day of appreciation

    International Cabernet Day is a much-needed day that gives us all the time in the world to appreciate and honor one of the greatest wine varieties in the world. Try it today if you get a chance!

  2. Everybody loves it

    People love this wine! Its bold fruit flavors and smooth tannins are all brought together in a single sip and give the taster an exquisite experience.

  3. It’s a time to unwind

    International Cabernet Day is an opportunity to break away from the stress and all other hustles of the world to take some time for ourselves and enjoy life a little with a glass of wine. Who can say no to that?

International Cabernet Day dates

YearDateDay
2022September 1Thursday
2023August 31Thursday
2024August 29Thursday
2025August 28Thursday
2026September 3Thursday

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