Every year, wine lovers across the world raise their glasses to one of the most celebrated and widely planted red grape varieties – Cabernet Sauvignon. Whether you're a casual sipper or a seasoned sommelier, International Cabernet Sauvignon Day is your perfect excuse to explore bold reds, understand the grape’s origins, and even discover affordable bottles that impress. In 2025, this special day will be celebrated on Thursday, August 28. From Cabernet Sauvignon's taste to top labels like Sula Rasa, Jacob’s Creek, and Fratelli, here’s your complete guide to this global wine event.
When Is International Cabernet Sauvignon Day 2025?
Date: Thursday, August 28, 2025
Celebrated: Globally on the Thursday before U.S. Labor Day
Purpose: To honor the history, flavor, and versatility of Cabernet Sauvignon wines
Origin of the Celebration
- Started in: 2010
- Founded by: Rick Bakas, a wine blogger and social media strategist based in California
- Goal: To use the power of social media to bring global attention to Cabernet Sauvignon, one of the world’s most popular red wine grapes.
- It was part of a broader trend at the time to create varietal-specific wine days (like #CabernetDay) to encourage tasting events and online conversations.
What Is Cabernet Sauvignon?
Cabernet Sauvignon is a full-bodied red wine grape variety that originated in the Bordeaux region of France and is now cultivated in nearly every major wine-producing country. It’s a natural cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc – hence the name.
Cabernet Sauvignon Characteristics
- Color: Deep ruby to garnet
- Body: Full-bodied
- Acidity: Medium to high
- Tannins: High
- Alcohol: Usually 13.5% – 15% ABV
- Cabernet Sauvignon Taste: Blackcurrant, plum, blackberry, tobacco, oak, green bell pepper
Is Cabernet Sauvignon dry or sweet?
Cabernet Sauvignon is a dry red wine known for its bold structure and rich complexity.
Cabernet Sauvignon vs. Other Reds
Cabernet Sauvignon vs Shiraz
- Cabernet Sauvignon: Earthy, tannic, blackcurrant-heavy
- Shiraz (Syrah): Juicier, more peppery, fruit-forward
- Shiraz Cabernet vs Cabernet Sauvignon: Shiraz Cabernet blends are softer and more approachable, while pure Cabernets are more intense and age-worthy.
Cabernet Sauvignon vs Merlot
- Cabernet Sauvignon: Dry, tannic, bold
- Merlot: Softer, fruitier, with less tannin
- Great for beginners? Start with Merlot, move to Cabernet Sauvignon for complexity.

Shiraz vs Cabernet Sauvignon vs Merlot
Popular Cabernet Sauvignon Wines in India
Sula Rasa Cabernet Sauvignon
- Type: Premium oak-aged red wine
- Cabernet Sauvignon price in India: INR 1,850 – INR 2,100
- Tasting Notes: Dark cherry, cocoa, vanilla
- Why Try: One of India’s finest reserve-level reds
- Label Highlight: Sula Cabernet Sauvignon (non-Rasa) is also available for INR 900–INR 1,200
Fratelli Cabernet Sauvignon
- Origin: Akluj, Maharashtra
- Cabernet Sauvignon wine price in India: INR 850 – INR 1,300
- Tasting Notes: Blackberry, spice, subtle oak
- Why Try: Smooth, food-friendly red from a top Indian winery
Jacob’s Creek Cabernet Sauvignon
- Origin: Australia
- Cabernet Sauvignon red wine price in India: INR 1,500 – INR 2,000
- Tasting Notes: Plum, mint, vanilla oak
- Why Try: Internationally trusted, well-balanced wine
Rasa Cabernet Sauvignon (Sula)
- Rasa Cabernet Sauvignon price: INR 1,900+
- Style: Barrel-aged reserve
- Cabernet Sauvignon taste: Smoky, layered, complex
Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi
- Origin: California, USA
- Cabernet Sauvignon wine price: INR 2,200 – INR 2,800 (imported)
- Taste Profile: Dark fruit, spice, vanilla
- Why Try: American classic; smooth yet bold
Best Way to Drink Cabernet Sauvignon
- Ideal Serving Temp: 15–18°C (60–65°F)
- Glassware: Tall bowl red wine glass
- Decanting: Yes, at least 30–45 minutes before serving
- Food Pairing: Red meats, grilled lamb, hard cheeses, dark chocolate
- Tip: Avoid serving too warm – it exaggerates alcohol.
Best Inexpensive Cabernet Sauvignon Options in India
Cabernet Sauvignon Around the World
- France: Bordeaux blends (Left Bank)
- USA: Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon – rich and bold
- Chile & Argentina: Affordable, fruit-forward wines
- Australia: Margaret River and Coonawarra styles – minty, structured
- India: Gaining traction with estates like Sula, Fratelli, and Grover Zampa
Summing Up
As International Cabernet Sauvignon Day 2025 approaches on August 28, there’s no better time to explore the depth and diversity of this iconic grape. Whether you’re sipping on a bottle of Rasa Cabernet Sauvignon, trying a French wine Cabernet Sauvignon, or comparing Cabernet Sauvignon vs Shiraz, this globally celebrated day invites you to dive deeper into the world of bold reds. From Cabernet Sauvignon price in India to tasting notes and food pairings – now you’re all set to swirl, sniff, and sip like a pro.
Note: Wine prices in India may vary significantly based on state taxes, availability, and vintage.