What to pair with Cabernet Sauvignon

Got meat? Then Cab wants to come over to play. Full-bodied and rich, Cabernet Sauvignon is assertive and complex, moreso than Merlot (its gentle neighbor in Bordeaux). It has plenty of tannin and acidity and shows off flavors of blackberries, plums, and cassis, along with vanilla, cedar, chocolate, and coffee.

Bottom line, it's a great choice for big, meaty dishes and rich sauces. And it's friendly with all manner of preparations: braised, broiled, roasted, grilled, seared, stewed.

Here are some of our very favorite pairings from AllRecipes.com with Cabernet Sauvignon:

1. Blue Cheese Burgers

Why it works: You can't go wrong with a grilled burger and Cabernet; it's already approaching perfection. But add a little funky blue cheese, and the Cab friendliness goes extreme.

2. Rosemary Braised Lamb Shanks

Why it works: Lamb and Cab, it's kind of a no-brainer. (See also, Grilled Lamb Chops and Roasted Rack of Lamb.) What helps vault this recipe over the top is the rosemary. Cabernet just loves it. Truthfully, rosemary makes almost any dish more red wine friendly.

2. Rosemary Braised Lamb Shanks

Why it works: Lamb and Cab, it's kind of a no-brainer. (See also, Grilled Lamb Chops and Roasted Rack of Lamb.) What helps vault this recipe over the top is the rosemary. Cabernet just loves it. Truthfully, rosemary makes almost any dish more red wine friendly.

Get these amazing recipes here: http://dish.allrecipes.com/best-recipes-pair-cabernet-sauvignon/