As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have encountered this question many times. The answer is yes, you can refrigerate Cabernet Sauvignon after opening. Many people have the misconception that red wine should never be chilled, but this is not necessarily true. Cooler temperatures can actually slow down the oxidation process, which is what causes wine to go bad.
When a bottle of wine is opened, it is exposed to oxygen, which can start to break down the flavors and aromas of the wine. This process is known as oxidation, and it is the reason why wine can taste stale or flat after being open for a while. By storing the opened bottle in the fridge, you can slow down this chemical reaction and keep the wine fresher for a longer period of time.
I understand that some wine enthusiasts may be hesitant to put red wine in the fridge, as they believe it will alter the taste or texture. While it is true that serving red wine at a slightly cooler temperature can emphasize certain flavors and make the wine taste more refreshing, storing it in the fridge for a few days will not drastically change its characteristics.
In fact, I have personally stored opened bottles of Cabernet Sauvignon in the fridge for up to five days and found that they remained relatively fresh. Of course, it is important to reseal the bottle tightly to minimize the exposure to oxygen. Using a vacuum sealer or a wine stopper can help create a tight seal and preserve the wine's quality.
If you are worried about the temperature affecting the taste of the wine, simply take the bottle out of the fridge about 15 minutes before serving. This will allow the wine to warm up slightly and reach its optimal drinking temperature.
To summarize, refrigerating opened Cabernet Sauvignon is perfectly fine and can actually help prolong its freshness. Cooler temperatures slow down the oxidation process, allowing the wine to stay relatively fresh for up to five days. Just remember to reseal the bottle tightly and allow the wine to warm up a bit before serving.