Cabernet Franc Day, celebrated every year on December 4th, honors one of the wine world’s most elegant and versatile red grapes. Whether you’re a Cab Franc connoisseur or new to the varietal, this day is the perfect excuse to pour a glass and explore its rich history and distinctive character. Let’s dive into 10 fun facts about this beloved grape!
1. Cab Franc is One of Bordeaux’s Original Grapes
Cabernet Franc is a parent grape of two of the world’s most famous varieties—Cabernet Sauvignon (crossed with Sauvignon Blanc) and Merlot crossed with (Magdeleine Noire des Charentes) as well as Carmenérè (crossed with Gros Cabernet.) It has been grown in Bordeaux since at least the 17th century. Cabernet Franc has two more children still in Spain; Hondarribi Beltza and Morena. (other parent is unkown)
2. Loire Valley is Its Spiritual Home
While Bordeaux may have a “claim” on it, Cabernet Franc shines in France’s Loire Valley, where it is the dominant red grape. Iconic wines like Chinon, Saumur, and Bourgueil showcase its lighter, more aromatic style. But in all actuality, Cabernet Franc was “born” in the Basque region of Spain.
3. Cab Franc Day Commemorates a Legend
The date, December 4th, honors the death of Cardinal Richelieu in 1642, who is believed to have helped spread Cabernet Franc throughout Europe by carrying clipping to the Loire Valley.
4. Aromatic and Herbaceous
Cabernet Franc is known for its aromatic complexity. Expect notes of raspberry, violet, and bell pepper, often with hints of herbs, graphite, anise, lavender and black pepper.
5. Cooler Climates = Bright Acidity
This grape thrives in cooler climates, such as New York’s Finger Lakes, and even Canada’s Niagara Peninsula, where it maintains high acidity and elegant tannins. It is thought of as a insurance grape since it ripens earlier than Cabernet Sauvignon.
6. Perfect for Food Pairing
Thanks to its medium body, bright acidity, and moderate tannins, Cab Franc is incredibly food-friendly. It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, grilled meats, and even savory mushroom dishes.
7. It Can Be Rosé or Sparkling
While often enjoyed as a red wine, Cabernet Franc also makes stunning rosés and even sparkling wines, particularly in regions like Saumur. It can even be produced as a white wine (check out Dracaena Wines‘ Blanc de Franc, which is currently sold out but will be available again in April.)
8. It’s a Star in Blends
In Bordeaux and other wine regions, Cabernet Franc is a key player in blends, contributing elegance, aromatics, and structure alongside Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.
9. A Low-Tannin Red for Pinot Noir Lovers
Cabernet Franc’s low to medium tannin structure and bright fruit make it an excellent red wine for those who enjoy lighter styles like Pinot Noir.
10. Dracaena Wines Created Cab Franc Day
Did you know that the internationally recognized Cabernet Franc Day was founded by Dracaena Wines in 2015? Their mission is to celebrate and elevate the profile of this exceptional grape globally.
Join the Celebration!
This year, Cab Franc Day includes a Winemaker Roundtable moderated by Lori Budd of Dracaena Wines tonight at 6 PM PT. Register for free on Eventbrite to learn directly from winemakers and celebrate the versatility of Cabernet Franc. You can register here.
Grab a bottle of your favorite Cab Franc, raise a glass, and join the global celebration! 🍇
~Slainte!
