A guide to saying it correctly
How to Pronounce Cabernet Sauvignon
Pronounce this popular red wine grape and its wines, from Bordeaux to your glass.
cabernet sauvignon
KAB-er-nay SOH-vin-yon
/ˌkæbərˌneɪ ˈsɔːvɪnjɔːn/ · kab · er · ney · soh · vin · yon
Native US English · Kokoro neural TTS · 0:01
It's one of the world's most recognized red wine varietals.
Where the word comes from
The name likely comes from the French word 'cabernet', possibly referring to a type of vine, and 'sauvignon', which may mean 'wild' or 'savory'.
Common ways people get it wrong
- CAB-er-net SOW-vin-yon The 'au' in Sauvignon is pronounced like 'oh' or 'aw', not 'ow' like in 'cow'.
- CAB-er-nay SAH-vin-yon The first syllable of 'Sauvignon' is closer to 'SOH' or 'SAW', not a short 'SAH'.
Frequently asked
Is it French or Italian?
Cabernet Sauvignon is a French grape variety, originating from the Bordeaux region. It is now grown worldwide.
What does Cabernet Sauvignon taste like?
It's known for its full body, firm tannins, and flavors of black currant, cherry, and sometimes notes of cedar or tobacco.
How do you say it if you're American?
Americans generally use the same pronunciation, with the emphasis on 'KAB' and 'SOH'. The final 'gn' sound is like 'nyon'.
How do you properly say Cabernet Sauvignon?
The most common pronunciation in English is 'KAB-er-nay soh-vin-YOHN'. The 'T' in Cabernet is silent.
What is the pronunciation of Cabernet Sauvignon in French?
In French, it is pronounced 'ka-ber-NAY so-vin-YON'. The emphasis is on the last syllable.
What is the pronunciation of Cabernet Sauvignon in English?
In English, it is typically pronounced 'KAB-er-nay soh-vin-YOHN'. Some may omit the 'T' sound at the end of Cabernet.
What is the pronunciation of Sauvignon?
Sauvignon is pronounced 'soh-vin-YOHN' in French, and often 'soh-vin-YON' or 'soh-vin-YOHN' in English.
