Why Does Cabernet Franc Deserve the Spotlight?
In the nine years since I created Cabernet Franc Day, I have seen Cabernet Franc gain more space in the spotlight. There have been many articles written about how it is having its day and each one places a smile on my face.
Cabernet Franc was quite the gigolo, having five different children with five different baby mammas. The most famous offspring is Cabernet Sauvignon. In this case, Cab Franc and Sauvignon Blanc got together in the vineyard and the result is the number one planted red grape variety in the world. His lesser know children in the United States include Merlot (x Magdeleine Noire des Charentes) and Carménère (x Gros Cabernet) But he has two additional children that seem to be the black sheep of the family, since they are often left out of the conversation of the family tree; Morenoa and Hondarribi Beltza.
Although it is often stated that Cabernet Franc’s birthplace is Bordeaux, there is evidence that it actually was “born” in the Spanish Basque country and traveled to southwest France during the global warming following the last Ice Age. In Spain, Cabernet Franc is not a hugely popular planting, but can be found in an still be found in Castilla la Mancha, Catalunya and Valencia.
Characteristics of Cabernet Franc
On the vine, Cabernet Franc buds and ripens approximately two weeks earlier than Cabernet Sauvignon and about one week after Merlot. Thanks to its ripening period, it has become extremely useful in cooler regions of the world such as Bordeaux, the Finger Lakes, and mid-west states. In France, Cabernet Franc is the main red grape variety in Touraine in the Loire, especially Chinon, Bourgueil, Saint-Nicolas de Bourgueil and Saumur-Champigny.
Identification of Cabernet Franc is easiest during its earlier time of maturation. Its young leaves are reddish green in color with bronze patches. Once the leaves reach adulthood, they are pentagonal, with three or five lobes. The petiolar sinus has slightly overlapping lobes and the lateral sinuses, typically are toothed at the base. The underside has a small amount of flat-lying hairs. The berries are round.
Cabernet Franc is lighter and more elegant, with a bright red fruit profile featuring raspberry, red currant, and strawberry. It’s often highlighted by herbal and floral notes like violets, green bell pepper, and sometimes graphite or spice, making it distinct from its more robust relatives. Cabernet Franc stands out for its high acidity, which gives it a vibrant and crisp character, and moderate tannins that are lighter than Cabernet Sauvignon but more pronounced than Merlot. Its alcohol levels are typically moderate, ranging from 12.5% to 14.5%, with cooler climates resulting in even lower alcohol content.
Cabernet Franc Around the World
Although somewhat adaptive, Cabernet Franc enjoys soils composed of limestone-clay with a consistent supply of water. It prefers Mediterranean climate and can be successful in sandy soils. Cab Franc prefers moderate to cool climates, but can do well in hot climate as long as the is consistent irrigation.
In North America, Cabernet Franc can be found in primarily in California, Washington State, the mid-west in the Ohio River Valley and Great Lakes Region. In the north east, the Hudson Valley, Long Island and Virginia are top producers. as well as Canada. It is also becoming more popular in South Africa, Chile, Argentina, Italy, Australia and New Zealand.
Cabernet Franc Day Celebration
Cabernet Franc Day is celebrated on December 4th to honor the legacy of the grape and to spread the word that it is more than a blending grape. The date was chosen because it coincides with the death anniversary of Cardinal Richelieu, who loved Cabernet Franc.
Cardinal Richelieu is believed to have brought Cabernet Franc cuttings to the Loire Valley in France during the 17th century, introducing it to the region where it later became a cornerstone varietal. By celebrating on December 4th, wine lovers and producers pay homage to the grape’s history while also highlighting its growing popularity as a single-varietal wine in regions across the world.
Celebrate Cab Franc Day with me! I will be moderating a live winemaker roundtable featuring industry experts! The seminar will take place on December 4th at 6 PM PT. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just discovering the charm of Cabernet Franc, this is a great opportunity to learn, ask questions, and explore the fascinating world of this versatile varietal.
What to Expect:
- Insightful conversations with top winemakers
- A deeper dive into the unique characteristics of Cabernet Franc
- Tips on food pairings, winemaking techniques, and more
- The chance to interact and ask your questions live!
Register for FREE on Eventbrite: Sign Up Here
Can’t make it live? No problem! The recording will be available to everyone who registers. Be sure to head to cabfrancday.com and find a new favorite producer. And of course, don’t forget about Dracaena Wines. Order your Cab Franc today for delivery by Cab Franc Day! (use code EXPLORE to receive 10% off your order)
Celebrate the beauty of Cabernet Franc with us! Dive into its rich history, explore food pairings, and discover why it’s a favorite among wine lovers. Don’t forget to join the Cabernet Franc Day festivities—share your favorite Cab Franc moments in the comments below!
~Slàinte!
I invite you to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and Youtube for all things wine. I’ll never tell you what to drink, but I’ll always share what’s in my glass. Please subscribe to my blog by entering your email address under “Subscribe to Blog by Email” in the right hand column.
