Page "Cabernet Sauvignon" Paragraph 1

Despite its prominence in the industry, the grape is a relatively new variety, the product of a chance crossing between Cabernet franc and Sauvignon blanc during the 17th century in southwestern France.

Its popularity is often attributed to its ease of cultivation — the grapes have thick skins and the vines are hardy and resistant to rot and frost — and to its consistent presentation of structure and flavours which express the typical character (" typicity ") of the variety.

Familiarity and ease of pronunciation have helped to sell Cabernet Sauvignon wines to consumers, even when from unfamiliar wine regions.

Its widespread popularity has also contributed to criticism of the grape as a " colonizer " that takes over wine regions at the expense of native grape varieties.