<P> The use of oak in California Cabernet has a long history, with many producers favoring the use of new oak barrels heavily composed of American oak . After the early 1980s' unsuccessful trend to create more "food friendly" wines, with less ripeness and less oak influence, winemakers' focus shifted back to oak influence, but producers were more inclined to limit and lighten the use of oak barrels, with many turning to French oak or a combination of new and older oak barrels . </P> <P> Cabernet Sauvignon is the most widely planted red grape variety in Washington state according to the Washington State Wine Commission . It is generally found in the warmer sites of the Columbia Valley . The vines are choice plantings for growers due to their hardy vine stalks and resistance to the cold winter frost that is commonplace in Eastern Washington . Washington Cabernet Sauvignon is characterized by its fruitiness and easy drinking styles that are not overly tannic . Recent Washington American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) that have seen some success with their Cabernet Sauvignons include Red Mountain, Walla Walla Valley and parts of the Yakima Valley AVA near the Tri-Cities region . </P> <P> In Oregon there are small quantities of Cabernet Sauvignon planted in the warmer southern regions of the Umpqua and Rogue Valleys . </P> <P> It has also started to develop a presence in the Arizona, New York, Ohio, Texas and Virginia wine industries - particularly in the Texas Hill Country and North Fork of Long Island AVAs . Throughout the United States, Cabernet Sauvignon is made in both varietal and blended styles . Under the American system, varietal Cabernet Sauvignon can include up to 25% other grapes . </P>

Where do the best cabernet sauvignons come from