Beverage
Cabernet Franc
Cabernet Franc is a parent of Cabernet Sauvignon—lighter, more herbal, with red currant, pencil shavings, and violet—thriving in Loire (Chinon, Bourgueil, Saumur-Champigny) and as a Bordeaux blender. Cool sites emphasise green-pepper freshness; warmer sites push juicier berry fruit with softer edges. Superb with roasted vegetables, pork, lentils, and medium meats that need herbal lift without Cabernet Sauvignon’s mass. Deglaze quickly to keep perfume; over-reduction can exaggerate pyrazines into bitterness.
Also known as: Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Franc
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Characteristics
Preparations
Traits
Grading systems
Grades are placed along a shared scale so systems can be compared side by side.
History
Cabernet Franc was established in Bordeaux and the Loire as a distinct red variety.
Loire red appellations built Cabernet Franc’s reputation for elegant, food-driven wines.
New World and right-bank interest expanded quality varietal Cabernet Franc outside France.