Australian Sparkling Blending Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz with other softer, rounder tasting varieties can add complexity and change the style. Cabernet has a firm intense tannic backbone and the fruit characteristic is enhanced and softened after blending with merlot.

Cabernet grown in regions such as Coonawarra and Margaret River attains an inky - black, purple look as a young wine, deep aromas of blackcurrant, tobacco and capsicum and a fine tannic mouthfeel. It is long and satisfying, especially when matured in French oak casks which adds a spicy, vanillin taste and a more complex texture. This is the classic Bordeaux blend. In Australia the blend is more likely to be Shiraz.