Wine 101 The Fascinating Cabernet Franc

Explore the origins, diverse expressions, and tasting notes of Cabernet Franc, a red grape born in Bordeaux but now making a mark globally, from France’s Loire Valley to the coasts of the U.S. and the vineyards of Chile.

Cabernet Franc in the Spotlight

• Born in Bordeaux, Cabernet Franc shares its heritage with esteemed grapes like Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Malbec.
• While often playing a supporting role in Bordeaux blends, Cabernet Franc takes center stage in regions like the Loire Valley, U.S., and Chile.

Cabernet Franc in 60 Seconds

• Parent grape to Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Carménère.
• Bordeaux features it in right-bank Merlot-dominant blends and left-bank expressions with more Cabernet Sauvignon.
• High-quality Cabernet Franc can gracefully age up to 15 years.
• France labels varietal Cabernet Franc by the region, with Chinon and Bourgueil being notable examples.

What Cabernet Franc Tastes Like

• Exhibits diverse characteristics based on the climate; cool-climate regions offer tart strawberry and raspberry notes, while warmer climates provide ripe fruit character.
• Distinct bell pepper aroma, medium to high acidity, and tannin contribute to its complexity.

Places That Grow Cabernet Franc

• In Bordeaux blends, Cabernet Franc adds finesse, with as little as 5 percent of the blend.
• Loire Valley’s Touraine sub-region, especially Bourgueil and Chinon, produces notable varietal expressions.
• Italy’s Super Tuscan category features ripe and full-bodied Cabernet Franc.
• U.S. vineyards in Long Island, Finger Lakes, and Washington State, along with California’s Sierra Foothills, showcase the grape’s versatility.
• Chile’s Colchagua Valley excels in producing ripe and juicy Cabernet Franc.

Foods To Pair With Cabernet Franc

• Perfect for gamey meats like lamb, rabbit, duck, and venison.
• Versatile enough for everyday favorites like roast chicken or fish tacos.
• Higher acidity makes it an excellent match for tomato-centric dishes, such as tomato and feta tart or tomato, eggplant, and mozzarella stacks.
• Spicy aromas pair well with dishes infused with fresh herbs and spices, like sage and rosemary in lasagna or extra red pepper flakes in lentil and tomato curry.

10 Facts about Cabernet Franc

1. Cabernet Franc, born in Bordeaux, plays a supportive role in blends but shines globally.
2. It’s the parent grape to renowned varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Carménère.
3. Cabernet Franc can age gracefully for up to 15 years.
4. In France, varietal expressions are labeled by region, with Chinon and Bourgueil being notable examples.
5. Tasting notes vary based on climate, presenting tart berries in cool climates and ripe fruit in warmer regions.
6. Cabernet Franc is a key player in Bordeaux blends, adding finesse with minimal composition.
7. The Touraine sub-region in the Loire Valley produces renowned varietal Cabernet Franc expressions.
8. Italian Super Tuscan wines feature rich and full-bodied versions of Cabernet Franc .
9. U.S. vineyards across Long Island, Finger Lakes, Washington State, and California showcase the grape’s adaptability.
10. Chile’s Colchagua Valley excels in producing ripe and juicy Cabernet Franc.

Cabernet Franc examples

1. Cabernet Franc – Continuum Estate (United States, Napa Valley)
2. Cabernet Franc – Loire Valley, Charles Joguet “Clos de la Dioterie” (France)
3. Cabernet Franc – Southbrook Vineyards (Canada, Niagara Peninsula)
4. Cabernet Franc – Concha y Toro, Marques de Casa Concha (Chile)

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