Is there an Italian Cabernet Sauvignon?

There is indeed an Italian Cabernet Sauvignon. Italy is known for its wide variety of grape varietals and wine regions, and Cabernet Sauvignon is no exception. While it may not be as widely recognized as some of Italy's native grape varieties, Cabernet Sauvignon has found a place in the country's winemaking tradition.

Cabernet Sauvignon is loved and planted in all parts of Italy, from the northern regions of Piedmont and Veneto to the central regions of Tuscany and Umbria, and even in the southern regions of Sicily and Puglia. It is the country's sixth most planted red grape, after Nero d'Avola, Sangiovese, Montepulciano, Barbera, and Primitivo.

In Italy, Cabernet Sauvignon is often used alongside Cabernet Franc, another Bordeaux grape variety. When these two grapes are blended together, they are simply referred to as “Cabernet.” The blending of these two grapes can result in wines that exhibit a beautiful balance of dark fruit flavors, vibrant acidity, and structured tannins.

One of the most famous regions for Cabernet Sauvignon in Italy is Bolgheri, located in Tuscany. Bolgheri gained international recognition in the 1970s when a group of winemakers began experimenting with Bordeaux varieties, including Cabernet Sauvignon, in the region. The resulting wines, known as “Super Tuscans,” showcased the potential of Cabernet Sauvignon in Italy and helped put Bolgheri on the wine map.

Another region where Cabernet Sauvignon thrives is the Veneto region, particularly in the area of Valpolicella. Here, it is often blended with the native grape Corvina to create rich and complex wines with a unique Italian twist.

Personal experiences have shown me that Italian Cabernet Sauvignon can offer a delightful alternative to its French and New World counterparts. I have had the pleasure of tasting Cabernet Sauvignon-based wines from various Italian regions, and each one has had its own distinct character and sense of place.