
Cabernet Franc
The subtler and more delicate of the Cabernets ...
The subtler and more delicate of the Cabernets, Cabernet Franc is a proud parent of Cabernet Sauvignon. While both are important grapes in modern day, high quality Bordeaux, interestingly, Cabernet Franc most likely originated from the Basque region of France sometime during the middle 1600’s. Today Cabernet Franc produces outstanding single varietal wines across the wine producing world, with some of its most classic examples from France’s Loire Valley, in the regions of Chinon, Bourgueil and Saumur-Champigny. Outside of France, Cabernet Franc performs quite well in parts of California, New York and Virginia. It is also a great blending grape.
In the Glass
Cabernet Franc typically tastes of red raspberries, cherries and herbs, with a stunning perfume of violets, tobacco and spice.
Perfect Pairings
Mouthwatering acidity makes Cabernet Franc an incredibly food-friendly wine, helping to cut through the richness of fatty meat dishes. It especially shines in tandem with lamb, and its affinity for the spice cabinet allows it to pair perfectly with Chinese dishes prepared with Szechuan pepper and five-spice.
Sommelier Secret
One of California's best-kept secrets is the Happy Canyon appellation of Santa Barbara. Here Cabernet Franc shines as a single varietal wine or in blends, expressing sumptuous fruit, savory aromas and polished tannins.
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Cave de Saumur Saumur Champigny Lieu-dit Les Poyeux 2005Cabernet Franc from Saumur, Loire, France
- WS
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Couly-Dutheil Clos l'Echo Chinon 2005Cabernet Franc from Chinon, Touraine, Loire, France
- WS
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Le Macchiole Paleo 2005Cabernet Franc from Tuscany, Italy
- W&S
- WS
- RP
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Catherine & Pierre Breton Trinch! 2005Cabernet Franc from Loire, France
- WS
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Poggio al Tesoro Dedicato A Walter Toscana 2005Cabernet Franc from Tuscany, Italy
- WE
- RP
- WS
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Catherine & Pierre Breton Bourgueil Les Galichets 2005Cabernet Franc from Loire, France
- WS
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Couly-Dutheil Chinon La Baronnie Madeleine 2005Cabernet Franc from Chinon, Touraine, Loire, France
- WS