Cabernet Sauvignon is indeed a dry wine. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that cabernet sauvignon is known for its dryness, especially among red wines. When we talk about the dryness of a wine, we are referring to the level of residual sugar left in the wine after fermentation. In the case of cabernet sauvignon, winemakers typically allow the yeast to consume all the sugar during fermentation, resulting in a wine with very little to no residual sugar.
The dryness of cabernet sauvignon is one of the key characteristics that wine enthusiasts appreciate about this varietal. It is known for its bold and intense flavors, and the absence of sweetness allows these flavors to shine through. This dryness also contributes to the wine's ability to age well, as the absence of residual sugar helps to preserve the wine's structure and balance over time.
Personally, I have had the pleasure of tasting various cabernet sauvignon wines from different regions around the world, and their dryness has always been consistent. Whether it's a Bordeaux from France, a Napa Valley cabernet sauvignon from California, or a Coonawarra cabernet sauvignon from Australia, they all exhibit a dry taste profile. The dryness is often accompanied by flavors of blackcurrant, dark cherry, cedar, and sometimes hints of tobacco or earthiness.
It's worth noting that while cabernet sauvignon is generally considered a dry wine, there can be some variation in the level of dryness from bottle to bottle, depending on the winemaker's style. Some winemakers may choose to leave a small amount of residual sugar in the wine to round out the flavors or provide a slightly softer mouthfeel. However, even in these cases, the sweetness is typically minimal and the wine is still classified as dry.
To summarize, cabernet sauvignon is a dry wine with little to no residual sugar. Its dryness allows the bold and intense flavors to shine through and contributes to its ability to age well. Whether you're enjoying a bottle of cabernet sauvignon from France, California, or Australia, you can expect a dry and robust wine that pairs well with a variety of foods.