Buy Cabernet Sauvignon Online in NZ

Australian producers lead the way, including Penfolds, Wolf Blass, Yalumba, Taylors and Pepperjack, with Church Road representing New Zealand. The range runs from weeknight reds to single-vineyard bottles.

Cabernet Sauvignon Regions

  • Australia: Coonawarra and Margaret River are its best-known homes, often showing blackcurrant with a hint of mint or eucalyptus.
  • New Zealand: grown mainly in warm Hawke's Bay, where it is often blended with Merlot for a more savoury, elegant style.
  • California: ripe and generous, with dark fruit and sweet oak.

For a softer red, try Merlot, compare the classic pairing in Cabernet Merlot, or browse all Red Wine.

How to Choose Cabernet Sauvignon

For an easy-going introduction to the grape, Penfolds Koonunga Hill Cabernet Sauvignon is a reliable everyday bottle. Church Road McDonald Series Cabernet Sauvignon shows the Hawke's Bay style, while Ravenswood Cabernet Sauvignon brings ripe Californian fruit.

Cabernet Sauvignon FAQs

What does Cabernet Sauvignon taste like?

Cabernet Sauvignon tastes of blackcurrant, black cherry and plum, often with cedar, tobacco or mint. It is full-bodied, with firm tannins and fresh acidity. Oak ageing adds vanilla and spice, and with time in bottle the fruit softens into more savoury, leathery notes.

What is the difference between Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot?

Cabernet Sauvignon is firmer and more structured than Merlot, with higher tannin and blackcurrant flavours. Merlot is softer and rounder, with plum and chocolate. Because they complement each other, the two are often blended, as in Bordeaux and Hawke's Bay.

What food goes with Cabernet Sauvignon?

Cabernet Sauvignon goes well with red meat, especially steak, roast beef and lamb. Its firm tannins are softened by protein and fat, which makes the wine taste smoother. Hard cheeses such as aged cheddar and dishes with mushrooms or rosemary also work well.