Wine
Sauvignon Blanc vs. Cabernet Sauvignon: Everything You Need to Know
July 30, 2025
Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon are two of the most well-known grape varieties in the world of wine—however, despite sharing a similar name, these two grapes produce wines with distinct characteristics that set them apart. Understanding the key differences between Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon, as well as learning a bit about their history, is one of the easiest ways to level up your wine-drinking game, as well as enhance your appreciation for both varieties. Get started by diving into our Sauvignon Blanc vs. Cabernet Sauvignon explainer here.
Origins and Regions
Although both varieties hail from France, Sauvignon Blanc finds its roots in the Loire Valley, whereas Cabernet Sauvignon’s origins trace back to Bordeaux. Today, Sauvignon Blanc is still cultivated in its home region, but is also widely planted in New Zealand, Chile, South Africa, and California. Each region imparts its unique terroir and winemaking techniques, resulting in a diverse range of Sauvignon Blanc styles.
Similarly, Cabernet Sauvignon still plays a massive role in the wines of Bordeaux, specifically the blends of the Left Bank, but the grape has also found success in a number of other regions around the globe, including California, Australia, and Chile. Like Sauvignon Blanc, the style and flavor profile of Cabernet Sauvignon can vary depending on the region and winemaking practices.
Hugo Arias, Sommelier at Sommsation, reveals that the only true similarity between Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon is the ‘Sauvignon’ part of the grapes’ names, which traces back to the genetic relation between the two (more on that below). “Otherwise, the grapes are pretty different,” he says. “To start, Sauvignon Blanc is white and Cabernet Sauvignon is red; additionally, Sauvignon Blanc is very high in acidity and produces relatively light wines, whereas Cabernet Sauvignon almost always has a high concentration of flavor and tannins,” he says.
Key Differences and Similarities
While Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon share a name, they are quite different in terms of color, flavor, and structure. Sauvignon Blanc is a light and crisp white wine, while Cabernet Sauvignon is a robust and full-bodied red wine. The aging potential also differs, with Cabernet Sauvignon typically having greater aging potential due to its tannin structure, while Sauvignon Blanc is often consumed young.
Despite their differences, Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon share a historical connection. The "Sauvignon" in their names can cause confusion, but it simply reflects their shared heritage—Sauvignon Blanc is one of the parent grapes of Cabernet Sauvignon, the latter of which was born from crossing the former with Cabernet Franc.
Sauvignon Blanc: A Crisp and Refreshing White Wine
Sauvignon Blanc is a white grape variety known for producing wines with a crisp, refreshing acidity. Its flavor profile often includes notes of green apple, lime, kiwi, and herbal elements like bell pepper and grass. On the nose, Sauvignon Blanc typically exhibits aromas of citrus fruits and gooseberries, and sometimes a hint of minerality or flint. Above all, one of Sauvignon Blanc's defining characteristics is its high acidity, which makes it a perfect choice for pairing with food. Its alcohol content usually ranges from 12.5% to 14% ABV, and it is best served chilled at around 45-50°F (7-10°C).
Cabernet Sauvignon: A Bold and Full: Bodied Red Wine
On the other hand, Cabernet Sauvignon is a red grape variety that produces full-bodied wines with a robust structure. Cabernet Sauvignon is famous for its flavors of black cherry, black currant, and notes of oak, vanilla, and sometimes tobacco or leather. The rich aromas of dark fruits, spice, and occasional earthy or woody notes are characteristic of this variety. Cabernet Sauvignon wines generally have a higher alcohol content, ranging from 13.5% to 15% ABV, and are best served at room temperature, around 60-65°F (15-18°C). Their full-bodied nature and bold flavors make them an excellent companion for red meats, rich stews, and dishes with intense flavors.
Food Pairings and Uses
When it comes to food pairings, Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon shine in different ways. Arias notes that lighter styles of Sauvignon Blanc tend to go well with salads, poultry, and grilled veggies, and are perfect for warm weather days that scream for something refreshing. “On the other hand, richer styles of Sauvignon Blanc can be paired with richer seafood dishes, creamy pastas, along with meatier fish and poultry,” he says.
In contrast, Cabernet Sauvignon's full-bodied structure and bold flavors complement red meats, rich stews, and dishes with robust flavors. The wines are frequently aged in oak barrels to enhance their complexity, making them compatible with heartier dishes. “Cabernet Sauvignon, depending on the winemaking style, can go from your typical meat pairings all the way to richer style desserts, including those based on coffee or chocolate,” Arias says.
Age Worthiness in Cellar
Arias notes that when it comes to aging wines in the cellar, there are two main factors to consider: acidity and tannins. “White wine has a lot of acidity but almost no tannin, so in the case of Sauvignon blanc, the high acid is what is going to help with the aging process,” he says, citing that oak aging will also help in creating a more ageworthy structure for the wine. On the contrary, he notes that Cabernet Sauvignon has more tannin and bigger structure, both of which help support the potential for long-term aging. Above all, Arias highlights the importance of optimal aging conditions when storing wines over long periods of time, citing dark and cool places as the most ideal.
Wine 101: Red Wine vs. White Wine Differences
The fundamental distinction between red and white wines lies in their production process. Red wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, derive their tannic structure from fermenting with grape skins, imparting a more substantial mouthfeel. Conversely, white wines like Sauvignon Blanc undergo fermentation without skins, resulting in a lighter, crisper wine that emphasizes bright, fresh flavors.
Next up: 5 Grape Varieties to Discover Now – Expand your palate by learning about five intriguing grape varieties that offer unique tasting experiences. This guide provides insights into lesser-known grapes, inviting you to explore new flavors and expand your appreciation for the diversity of wine.
Sommsation Recommends:
The best way to dive deeper into the captivating world of Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon? Taste the differences for yourself. Check out these six expert-approved bottlings for getting to know the innate characteristics of these powerhouse grape varieties for yourself:
Sauvignon Blanc
Suisin Creek Winery Sauvignon Blanc 2023 ($22.00) - Upfront aromas of citrus blossom and lemon grass, with hints of white peach. A refreshing finish with beautiful acidity.
Tamber Bey Vineyards Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2022 ($34.00) - On the palate, the wine undulates with layers of texture, flavor and zippy acidity. This wine is pure elegance in a bottle – and total deliciousness in your glass.
Component Wine Company Farfalla Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2023 ($51.00) - Notes of slate, white flowers, lime zest, wet stone clarity, and high toned spiciness. Palate is tensioned between oak sweetness and freshness of the year's cool season. Heavy salinity.
Cabernet Sauvignon
Alta Orsa Reserve Cabernet 2020 ($45.00) - Aromatically, it brings lively blackberry compote, bittersweet chocolate, and freshly brewed espresso. Its intense color translates onto the palate. It's a brooding and savory Cabernet Sauvignon with hints of dark chocolate and wet slate as it opens. It is both juicy and grippy.
Halter Ranch Winery Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 ($68.00) - Aromas of red and black currant, raspberry, boysenberry, and toasted almonds. The palate offers a soft and supple entry, revealing flavors of crumbled blueberry pie, olallieberry, and a hint of graham cracker. The finish is rich and textured, with soft, integrated tannins that create a long, layered finish.
En Garde Winery Oak Knoll Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 ($95.00) - Aromas of black currants and cassis erupt, announcing a young, ripe and fancy Cabernet Sauvignon. Superbly flavored, with additional complexities of anisette and chocolate, freshly crushed white pepper, and the sweet, toasty notes of new oak. The tannins are thick, but they're so softly sweet that the wine is delicious even at this young age.
Curious to taste more? Browse our full lineup of artisanal wines here. To book an expert-led tasting with one of our Sommsation sommeliers, click here.
FAQs
What are the main differences in taste between Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc?
Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc offer distinctive sensory experiences. Cabernet Sauvignon often presents bold flavors of ripe berries and hints of vanilla or tobacco, attributed to its aging process. This wine's firm tannins provide a robust, lingering finish. Sauvignon Blanc, however, is celebrated for its lively acidity and flavors of citrus and green herbs. Its light body and refreshing nature make it a popular choice for those seeking a crisp, clean finish.
Is Cabernet Sauvignon a red wine and Sauvignon Blanc a white wine?
Yes. Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc represent classic examples of red and white wines, respectively. The deep hue of Cabernet Sauvignon results from fermentation with grape skins, a hallmark of red wine production that enhances its depth and complexity. Conversely, Sauvignon Blanc undergoes fermentation without skins, emphasizing the grape's natural acidity and vibrant fruit flavors. This method aligns with the traditional approach to crafting white wines, focusing on clarity and freshness.
What foods pair best with Cabernet Sauvignon vs. Sauvignon Blanc?
Choosing the right food pairing can elevate the enjoyment of both Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc. The rich, full-bodied nature of Cabernet Sauvignon pairs seamlessly with dishes like grilled lamb chops, roasted duck, or mushroom risotto, where the wine's depth complements the dish's richness. Sauvignon Blanc's crisp, refreshing profile pairs beautifully with lighter dishes—think grilled fish, fresh salads, or goat cheese, where its acidity brightens the flavors.
Are Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc related in terms of grape origin?
A fascinating genetic connection exists between Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc. Cabernet Sauvignon originated from a natural crossing of Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Franc, a lineage that underscores the dynamic nature of grape breeding. This historical relationship enriches our understanding of how diverse wine varieties evolve and thrive, contributing to the broad spectrum of flavors and styles we enjoy today.
