Cabernet Sauvignon is a wine that rewards patience and intention. According to Head Winemaker Matt Casalenuovo, how you open, pour, and enjoy your Cabernet can dramatically shape the experience. Here are his simple, thoughtful tips for getting the most out of every bottle.

Decant with Purpose
Matt prefers using a small decanter, pouring the wine in briefly, and then returning it to the original bottle. This gentle aeration helps the wine open without overwhelming its structure, especially important for younger Cabernets.

Give It Time
When enjoying Cabernet upon release, patience is key. Matt recommends opening the bottle and waiting 1½ to 2 hours before drinking. This resting time allows the wine’s aromatics, texture, and balance to fully come into focus.

Choose the Right Glass
Glassware matters more than you might think. Matt favors smaller, universal glasses that preserve freshness and focus aromatics. Stemless glasses are a pass. His favorites? Zalto glasses—so much so that on a recent trip to France, he packed several into his suitcase to bring home.

When to Drink It
Cabernet doesn’t need to be saved only for the table. Matt often enjoys a glass while cooking, then returns to the wine toward the end of the meal with the main course and even dessert.

Don’t Skip Dessert
One of Matt’s favorite pairings is Cabernet with chocolate-based desserts, especially tiramisu. The wine’s structure and depth pair beautifully with cocoa and cream, creating a surprisingly elegant finish to the meal.

At its best, Cabernet Sauvignon is not rushed—it’s experienced. With a little patience and the right approach, each bottle reveals its full character, one glass at a time.

 

Follow along for more tips and insights with Matt on our IG: @courseygraves

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