Cabernet and burgundy are both deep red wine colors that are quite similar. However, there are some subtle differences between the two shades. In this article, we’ll explore what defines cabernet and burgundy colors, how they compare, and examples of each shade.
What is the cabernet color?
Cabernet is a deep red color, closely associated with the red wine varietal of the same name. It’s considered a dark shade of red and has a strong purple undertone. The hex code for cabernet is #522F24. The RGB values are R:82, G:47, B:36. The CMYK values are C:0, M:80, Y:80, K:50.
The cabernet color was named after and inspired by the bold red hue of Cabernet Sauvignon wines. Cabernet Sauvignon grapes produce wines with a very deep, opaque, ruby red color. The grapes themselves also have a deep purple-red skin. So cabernet as a color refers to these rich red wine tones.
What is the burgundy color?
Like cabernet, burgundy is also a reddish shade named after a type of red wine – Burgundy wine from France’s Burgundy region. The burgundy color has a dark red base and a brownish-purple tinge.
The hex code for burgundy is #800020. The RGB values are R:128, G:0, B:32. The CMYK values are C:30, M:100, Y:80, K:10. So burgundy contains a higher amount of purple compared to the red and blue in cabernet.
Burgundy was likewise named for and inspired by the deep red color of Burgundy wines like Pinot Noir. The wines are defined by their intense, concentrated red hues.
How do cabernet and burgundy compare?
Although cabernet and burgundy are both rich, red wine shades, they have some subtle differences:
- Cabernet is slightly deeper and darker than burgundy.
- Burgundy has more purple undertone compared to the blue undertones in cabernet.
- Cabernet appears warmer, while burgundy leans slightly cooler.
- Cabernet is a warmer, more blue-based red. Burgundy is a cooler, more purple-toned red.
However, the colors are still quite close. Here’s a visual comparison:
| Color | Hex Code | RGB | CMYK |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cabernet | #522F24 | R: 82, G: 47, B: 36 | C: 0, M: 80, Y: 80, K: 50 |
| Burgundy | #800020 | R: 128, G: 0, B: 32 | C: 30, M: 100, Y: 80, K: 10 |
While the hex codes and RGB/CMYK values are measurably different, cabernet and burgundy can still appear very alike to the naked eye in many settings. But burgundy does carry a subtle extra purple tone compared to cabernet.
Examples of the cabernet color
Here are some examples of places you’re likely to encounter the quintessential cabernet color:
- Red wine – Cabernet Sauvignon wine is the classic example that gives cabernet its signature deep red hue.
- Clothing – Deep burgundy reds are a staple color for clothing like dresses, tops, and accessories.
- Home decor – Amber cabernet tones are popular for curtains, area rugs, pillows, and other home furnishings.
- Paint – Many brands like Behr, Benjamin Moore, and Sherwin Williams offer their own cabernet paint shades.
- Lipstick – Deep red and bordeaux lipstick shades are very close to the cabernet tone.
Examples of the burgundy color
Some places where you’re likely to come across the characteristic burgundy color include:
- Wine – Burgundy wines like Pinot Noir show off the classic burgundy hue.
- Fashion – Deep reddish-purple is ubiquitous in fashion, from clothes to shoes to handbags.
- Cosmetics – Lipsticks, nail polishes, eye shadows, and more come in elegantly dark burgundy shades.
- Furniture – Rich, warm burgundy works well on couches, armchairs, ottomans, dining chairs, etc.
- Interiors – Burgundy makes for an elegant accent wall or décor color for rugs, pillows, drapes, etc.
Conclusion
In summary, while cabernet and burgundy are very close in hue, they have some subtle differences:
- Cabernet is a slightly deeper, darker red.
- Burgundy has more purple undertone.
- Cabernet appears warmer, while burgundy is slightly cooler-toned.
However, the two rich red shades are still quite similar to the eye. Both cabernet and burgundy are classic, sophisticated colors that add elegance wherever they’re used – whether in wine, fashion, cosmetics, home decor, and more.
So in general, cabernet and burgundy can be thought of as different shades of deep red wine color that are incredibly close relatives. While not identical, they are certainly complementary colors that evoke similar aesthetics and associations.
