As a sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that Cabernet Sauvignon is a dry wine. In fact, it is one of the driest wines available, particularly among red wines. The dryness of Cabernet Sauvignon is a result of the fermentation process and the absence of residual sugar in the final product.
During the fermentation process, yeast consumes the natural sugars present in the grape juice and converts them into alcohol. In the case of Cabernet Sauvignon, winemakers typically allow the yeast to fully ferment the sugars, resulting in a wine with very little or no residual sugar. This lack of sweetness is what characterizes Cabernet Sauvignon as a dry wine.
When tasting Cabernet Sauvignon, you can expect to experience flavors that are more on the bitter or tannic side rather than sweet. Tannins, which are naturally occurring compounds found in grape skins, seeds, and stems, contribute to the wine's bitterness and astringency. Cabernet Sauvignon is known for its bold and robust tannins, which can give the wine a dry and slightly bitter taste.
However, it's important to note that the perception of sweetness can also be influenced by factors such as fruit ripeness, winemaking techniques, and aging. In some cases, winemakers may choose to leave a small amount of residual sugar in the wine to balance out the tannins and enhance the overall flavor profile. This can result in a slightly sweeter style of Cabernet Sauvignon, but it is still considered a dry wine compared to other varietals.
In my personal experience, I have come across a wide range of Cabernet Sauvignon wines, each with its own unique characteristics. Some have been more fruit-forward and approachable, while others have been more structured and tannic. Regardless of the specific style, I have always found Cabernet Sauvignon to be a dry wine that pairs well with hearty dishes and has the potential for aging.
Cabernet Sauvignon is a dry wine with minimal or no residual sugar. Its dryness comes from the fermentation process, where yeast consumes the natural sugars in the grape juice. The wine is characterized by its bold tannins, which can contribute to a slightly bitter taste. However, variations in winemaking techniques and aging can influence the perception of sweetness in Cabernet Sauvignon.