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Cabernet Sauvignon and the year 1855


Franz Xaver Winterhalter Napoleon III.jpg
Napoleon III



1855 is an important year. It was the year, that French wines got officially classified by order of Napoleon III (Not to be confused with Napoleon Bonaparte or Napoleon I. He was the nephew of Napoleon Bonaparte). The order was established during the 1855 Exposition Universelle de Paris
What resulted was explosive, as dignitaries and monarchies marveled at the First Growths and subsequently wine trade around the world centered on Bordeaux.
 Image result for chateau Lafite label Image result for chateau margaux
 Image result for chateau haut brion Image result for Chateau latour Image result for chateau Mouton

Consequently wine sales around the world plunged. Inquisitive winemakers around the world rushed to find out what was happening, and what was the secret ingredient that made the First Growths so successful. As it turned out the 'secret ingredient' was 'Cabernet Sauvignon'.

Cabernet Sauvignon, is a cross between Cabernet Franc (Red grape) and Sauvignon Blanc (White grape),  had a history dating back to the 17th century. Aforementioned curious winemakers around the world took some root stocks and planted it in their vineyards. Hoping to replicate the success. Wineries began secretly selling Cabernet Sauvignon or blends of it. Not daring to defy strict European wine laws.

Image result for Cabernet Sauvignon

It was only about a 100 years later, a winery in Italy by the name of Sassicia came out of the shadows and became the first super Tuscan. (Chianti with Cabernet Sauvignon blend). It was revolutionary as many other wineries joined shortly after.

Across the Mediterranean sea, in South Africa. Legendary wineries such as Groot Constantia followed suit to much aplomb. Napoleon I's favorite winery won much praises with it's flagship red.
The Gouverneurs reserve Red
Portrait of Napoleon in his forties, in high-ranking white and dark blue military dress uniform. In the original image He stands amid rich 18th-century furniture laden with papers, and gazes at the viewer. His hair is Brutus style, cropped close but with a short fringe in front, and his right hand is tucked in his waistcoat.
Napoleon I

Groot Constantia Cabernet Sauvignon
Groot Constantia Gouverneurs Reserve
Today, the drinking crowd is much more diverse and Cabernet Sauvignon is now a common place in every corner of the world. As you enjoy a tipple on your next meal, why not let it be a Cabernet Sauvignon? If it was not for a classification a century ago, it might not be on our tables today.

https://www.stellezvine.com.sg/groot-constantia

Gerard Zhang
CSW, WSET











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