Grape Varieties: Cabernet Franc

The red Cabernet Franc grape variety is often referred to in the wine world as the “little brother” of Cabernet Sauvignon . The name, however, lags a bit, because the very old variety Cabernet Franc is a parent of the highly respected Cabernet Sauvignon. DNA analysis has shown that the Cabernet Sauvignon is a natural cross between the Cabernet Franc and the Sauvignon Blanc. The famous Merlot too has this grape as a parent: Merlot emerged from a cross between CF and Magdeleine Noire des Charentes, a grape variety that is now probably extinct. But where the grape comes from is uncertain. Their descent from wild grapes is suspected. What is certain is that it has been at home in Bordeaux for centuries .

Part of many Bordeaux wines

Cabernet Franc is at home in France, but not only: There are growing areas in Italy, California, Australia, New Zealand and Argentina, to name just a few countries with areas planted with CF vines. The vine is compared to the Cabernet Sauvignon weather resistant and therefore better suited for cooler wine regions. The CF wine is often used as a blending partner, among other things for the famous Bordeaux wines, in which it is classically combined with Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Wines made from CF berries are rarer. There are some winemakers in California and Australia who bottle the wine by type. The best known are the single-varietal wines from the Loire – exciting and interesting wines.

Cabernet Franc: Aromatic red wine

Pure CF wine has a lower tannin content than Cabernet Sauvignon, which is why it reaches its maturity earlier. In addition, the wine is less acidic, fruity and softer with a mostly lighter color. The flavor of CF wine is reminiscent of raspberries, black currants, strawberries and violets, paired with notes of bell pepper and green pepper. All in all, Cabernet Franc wines are rich and intense in fragrance and taste.