Cabernet franc
Father of cabernet-sauvignon, cabernet franc is the great red grape of the Loire and the fragrant soul of Bordeaux's right bank. Finer and earlier-ripening than its famous descendant, it produces elegant wines marked by raspberry and violet.
The aromatic profile
Cabernet franc offers raspberry and redcurrant fruit, a floral note of violet and, often, a vegetal character of bell pepper or pencil shavings more pronounced than in cabernet-sauvignon. On great terroirs, it gains in depth (black fruits, spices) without losing its aromatic finesse.
Structure and terroir
Earlier-ripening and less tannic than cabernet-sauvignon, it produces supple, easy-drinking wines on gravel and sandy soils, and more structured, age-worthy wines on limestone and tuffeau hillsides. In Touraine (Chinon, Bourgueil) it reigns alone; in Saint-Émilion, it brings aroma and freshness to the blend — Cheval Blanc has made it its signature.
At the table and around the world
Fruity and fresh, it pairs equally well with charcuterie and white meats as with red meats, and its most supple versions are happily served lightly chilled. It is found in the Loire, in the Libournais and as far as northern Italy.
Key facts
Where to taste Cabernet franc?
This variety is part of the blend in these appellations:
Bouteilles de Cabernet franc en vente
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