Everything About Cabernet-Franc Grape

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Description Icon Cabernet-Franc Description

Origin: Southwest France
History: Cabernet Franc is one of the oldest red grape varieties, believed to have been established in the Libournais region of Bordeaux by the 17th century. It is a parent grape of both Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, playing a crucial role in the development of these renowned varieties.
Appearance: Small to medium-sized, thin-skinned berries with a deep blue-black color, growing in loose clusters.
Growing Traits: Cabernet Franc is adaptable to various soil types but thrives particularly well in sandy, chalky soils. It is an early to mid-ripening variety, making it suitable for cooler climates. The grape is less tannic and astringent than Cabernet Sauvignon, resulting in softer wines when harvested at peak ripeness.
Food Pairing Icon Food Pairing
Cabernet Franc's medium body, balanced acidity, and herbal notes make it a versatile partner for a variety of dishes. It pairs well with roasted poultry, grilled vegetables, tomato-based sauces, and soft cheeses. The wine's subtle green pepper notes complement herb-infused dishes, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Body
Sweetness
Tannin
Acidity
Alcohol
Medium-bodied with a balanced profile, offering both elegance and structure. Dry, with minimal residual sugar, focusing on fresh fruit and herbal flavors. Medium tannin levels, providing structure without being overly astringent. Medium to high acidity, contributing to freshness and food-pairing versatility. Moderate alcohol content, typically ranging between 12% and 14%, ensuring balance and drinkability.
Red Cherry Taste Note Red Cherry
Raspberry Taste Note Raspberry
Green Bell Pepper Taste Note Green Bell Pepper
Herbal Taste Note Herbal
Violet Taste Note Violet
Cabernet Franc wines are characterized by red fruit flavors such as red cherry and raspberry, complemented by distinctive green bell pepper and herbal notes. Floral aromas, particularly violet, add complexity, all balanced by medium tannins and a fresh acidity, leading to a smooth and elegant finish.
Regions
[object Object] Region
France
•Loire Valley
•Bordeaux
[object Object] Region
Italy
•Friuli
•Veneto
[object Object] Region
United States
•California
•New York
[object Object] Region
Canada
•Ontario
•British Columbia
Notable Wines and Producers
Château Cheval Blanc
•Château Cheval Blanc
Domaine Charles Joguet Chinon
•Domaine Charles Joguet

Cabernet-Franc FAQ

Southwest France

Cabernet-Franc has a body level of 3 out of 5. Which means that Cabernet-Franc is Moderate bodied.

Cabernet-Franc has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Cabernet-Franc is Dry.

Southwest France

Cabernet-Franc is grown in France (Loire Valley, Bordeaux)Italy (Friuli, Veneto)United States (California, New York)Canada (Ontario, British Columbia).

Cabernet Franc wines are characterized by red fruit flavors such as red cherry and raspberry, complemented by distinctive green bell pepper and herbal notes. Floral aromas, particularly violet, add complexity, all balanced by medium tannins and a fresh acidity, leading to a smooth and elegant finish.

Cabernet Franc's medium body, balanced acidity, and herbal notes make it a versatile partner for a variety of dishes. It pairs well with roasted poultry, grilled vegetables, tomato-based sauces, and soft cheeses. The wine's subtle green pepper notes complement herb-infused dishes, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Cabernet Franc wines are characterized by red fruit flavors such as red cherry and raspberry, complemented by distinctive green bell pepper and herbal notes. Floral aromas, particularly violet, add complexity, all balanced by medium tannins and a fresh acidity, leading to a smooth and elegant finish.