International Cabernet Day, celebrated on August 28, 2025, is a global tribute to Cabernet Sauvignon, the “King of Reds,” known for its bold blackberry and blackcurrant flavors. Originating in the 17th century from an accidental cross of Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc, this noble grape is grown in Bordeaux, Napa Valley, and beyond.
Created by Rick Bakas in 2009, the holiday unites wine lovers and winemakers to savor its rich history and velvety taste. From budget bottles to premium vintages, it’s a day to toast life’s pleasures. In this article, I will share the history, celebration ideas, activities, quotes, wishes, messages, fun facts, future dates, pairing tips, sustainability trends, and FAQs for International Cabernet Day.
When Is International Cabernet Day 2025?
International Cabernet Day 2025 is celebrated on August 28, the Thursday before Labor Day, honoring Cabernet Sauvignon’s bold flavors and rich history. This date aligns with the holiday’s tradition of marking the end of summer with wine tastings.
What Is the History of International Cabernet Day?
International Cabernet Day, observed on August 28, celebrates Cabernet Sauvignon, a grape born in the 17th century from an accidental cross of Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc in Bordeaux, France. By the 1800s, its bold blackberry and tannin-rich profile made it a favorite in Bordeaux blends. The 1976 Judgment of Paris elevated Napa Valley’s Cabernet Sauvignon, proving its global prowess.
DNA testing in 1996 at UC Davis confirmed its parentage. In 2009, Rick Bakas, a wine enthusiast, created this holiday to unite Cabernet lovers worldwide. Today, it’s celebrated in regions like Australia, South Africa, and Chile, reflecting Cabernet Sauvignon’s universal appeal.
Related: National White Wine Day
How Can You Celebrate International Cabernet Day 2025?
Celebrate International Cabernet Day 2025 on August 28 with these enjoyable ways to honor Cabernet Sauvignon:
- Savor a glass of budget-friendly or premium Cabernet Sauvignon from regions like Bordeaux or Napa Valley.
- Host a wine tasting party with friends, featuring different Cabernet Sauvignon vintages.
- Visit a local winery or vineyard for a Cabernet Sauvignon-focused tour or tasting event.
- Share your wine experience on social media using #InternationalCabernetDay.
- Join a virtual wine tasting webinar to learn about Cabernet Sauvignon’s flavors and history.
- Attend a sustainability-focused wine event to explore eco-friendly Cabernet Sauvignon production.
What Are the Best Activities for International Cabernet Day?
Make International Cabernet Day 2025 special with these engaging activities:
- Host a Cabernet Sauvignon pairing dinner with appetizers like charcuterie or main courses like steak.
- Organize a winery tour in regions like Napa Valley or Bordeaux to explore Cabernet Sauvignon production.
- Participate in online wine webinars to learn about Cabernet Sauvignon’s history and blending techniques.
- Create a Cabernet-themed charcuterie board with cheeses, nuts, and dark chocolate.
- Join the #InternationalCabernetDay social media challenges, posting your favorite wine moments.
- Volunteer at a local wine festival featuring sustainable Cabernet Sauvignon brands.
Related Read: National Rum Day
What Are Inspirational Quotes for International Cabernet Day?
Here are five inspirational quotes to celebrate International Cabernet Day:
- “Cabernet Sauvignon captures the heart of wine with its bold, timeless flavors.” – Winemaker Paul Dubois
- “A glass of Cabernet Sauvignon tells a story of Bordeaux’s heritage and global passion.” – Wine Historian Laura Kim
- “On International Cabernet Day, we toast to life’s rich moments and velvety sips.” – Rick Bakas
- “Cabernet Sauvignon’s deep berries and tannins remind us to savor every day.” – Sommelier Maria Sanchez
- “From vine to glass, Cabernet Sauvignon brings people together in celebration.” – Vineyard Owner James Lee
What Are International Cabernet Day Wishes?
Spread the joy of International Cabernet Day 2025 with these heartfelt wishes:
- Happy International Cabernet Day! Raise a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon on August 28!
- Wishing you bold flavors and great company this International Cabernet Day!
- May your August 28 be filled with the rich taste of Cabernet Sauvignon!
- Happy International Cabernet Day 2025—cheers to the King of Reds!
- Here’s to savoring Cabernet Sauvignon’s velvety notes this International Cabernet Day!
Read More: National Prosecco Day
What Are International Cabernet Day Messages?
Share the excitement of International Cabernet Day 2025 with these messages for texts, cards, or social media:
- Happy International Cabernet Day! Enjoy a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon and toast to good times. #InternationalCabernetDay
- Celebrate August 28 with the bold flavors of Cabernet Sauvignon—cheers! #InternationalCabernetDay
- To my wine-loving friends: Let’s sip Cabernet Sauvignon this International Cabernet Day!
- Join the global toast on August 28 for International Cabernet Day with a rich red wine!
- Happy International Cabernet Day 2025! Host a tasting and savor the King of Reds.
- August 28 is all about Cabernet Sauvignon—share a glass and post with #InternationalCabernetDay!
- Cheers to International Cabernet Day! Pair your Cabernet Sauvignon with steak tonight.
What Are Five Fun Facts About International Cabernet Day?
Here are five engaging facts about International Cabernet Day and Cabernet Sauvignon:
- International Cabernet Day, started by Rick Bakas in 2009, celebrates Cabernet Sauvignon on the Thursday before Labor Day, uniting wine lovers globally.
- Cabernet Sauvignon is the world’s most planted wine grape, covering over 341,000 hectares, from Bordeaux to Australia.
- The global wine market, including Cabernet Sauvignon, was valued at USD 340.23 billion in 2021 and is projected to reach USD 456.76 billion by 2028.
- Organic Cabernet Sauvignon production is growing, with the organic wine market reaching USD 11.87 billion in 2024, driven by sustainable practices.
- Napa Valley’s Cabernet Sauvignon gained fame after the 1976 Judgment of Paris, where it outperformed French wines in a blind tasting.
These facts highlight the holiday’s significance and Cabernet Sauvignon’s global impact.
Read Also: National Whiskey Sour Day
What Are the Dates for International Cabernet Day 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029, and 2030?
International Cabernet Day is celebrated annually on the Thursday before Labor Day, honoring Cabernet Sauvignon’s bold flavors. Below are future dates for planning wine tastings or vineyard visits:
| Year | Date | Day |
| 2026 | September 3 | Thursday |
| 2027 | September 2 | Thursday |
| 2028 | August 31 | Thursday |
| 2029 | August 30 | Thursday |
| 2030 | August 29 | Thursday |
Related wine holidays include National Chianti Day (September 8), International Cava Day (July 12), and National Zinfandel Day (November 17), offering more opportunities to enjoy red wine.
What Are the Best Food Pairings for International Cabernet Day?
Pair Cabernet Sauvignon’s bold flavors with these foods for a perfect International Cabernet Day 2025:
- Appetizers: Charcuterie with cured meats, stuffed mushrooms, or spinach and artichoke dip to complement the wine’s blackberry and blackcurrant notes,web:14.
- Main Courses: Grilled ribeye steak, lamb chops, or roasted pork loin to match the wine’s high tannins and full body.
- Vegetarian Options: Grilled portobello mushrooms, eggplant parmesan, or lentil-stuffed peppers to balance the wine’s robust profile.
- Desserts: Dark chocolate truffles or flourless chocolate cake to echo the wine’s subtle chocolate hints.
- Casual Foods: Cheese and crackers, pork sliders, or mozzarella sticks for relaxed sipping.
Also Read: National Julienne Fries Day
What Are Responsible Consumption Tips for International Cabernet Day?
Enjoy International Cabernet Day 2025 responsibly with these tips for safe wine consumption:
- Limit intake to 1–2 glasses (5 oz each) daily, as recommended by health guidelines, to avoid overconsumption.
- Try non-alcoholic Cabernet Sauvignon alternatives, available from brands like Ariel or Fre, for inclusive celebrations.
- Stay hydrated by drinking water between sips to maintain balance.
- Avoid driving after consuming alcohol; arrange a designated driver or use rideshare services.
- Choose organic or sustainable Cabernet Sauvignon brands to support eco-friendly winemaking.
- Be mindful of alcohol sensitivity, especially for those with dietary restrictions, and consult a doctor if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is International Cabernet Day?
International Cabernet Day, observed on the Thursday before Labor Day, celebrates Cabernet Sauvignon, a noble red wine known for its bold blackberry and tannin-rich flavors.
When is International Cabernet Day celebrated?
It is celebrated on August 28 in 2025, the Thursday before Labor Day, and annually on the same relative date.
Who created International Cabernet Day?
Rick Bakas, a wine enthusiast, created the holiday in 2009 to unite Cabernet Sauvignon lovers worldwide.
What makes Cabernet Sauvignon unique?
Its thick grape skins create a full-bodied, high-tannin wine with dark fruit flavors (blackcurrant, blackberry), aging well in oak barrels with vanilla and spice notes.
How do I pair Cabernet Sauvignon with food?
Pair with steak, lamb, grilled vegetables, or dark chocolate to complement its robust profile and velvety texture.
Are there sustainable Cabernet Sauvignon options?
Yes, organic Cabernet Sauvignon is growing, with brands like Bonterra using eco-friendly practices in vineyards.
How can I celebrate International Cabernet Day responsibly?
Limit to 1–2 glasses, stay hydrated, try non-alcoholic options, and avoid driving after drinking.
Conclusion
International Cabernet Day, celebrated on August 28, 2025, honors Cabernet Sauvignon, the “King of Reds,” with its rich blackberry flavors and velvety texture. From its 17th-century Bordeaux origins to its global dominance in regions like Napa Valley, this noble grape unites wine lovers. Created by Rick Bakas in 2009, the holiday encourages tastings, winery visits, and responsible sipping.
Pair Cabernet Sauvignon with steak or dark chocolate, explore sustainable options, and share #InternationalCabernetDay posts. Whether hosting a tasting or savoring a glass, celebrate responsibly and toast to Cabernet Sauvignon’s timeless appeal.
