CABERNET FRANC
Herbal Elegance With a Silky Edge
Cabernet Franc is a red grape that offers a fresher, more aromatic take on its better-known offspring, Cabernet Sauvignon. Known for its floral notes, red fruit, and savory herbs, Cabernet Franc is both expressive and versatile—equally comfortable as a blending grape and a solo act. From the Loire Valley’s vibrant reds to structured New World versions, it brings finesse, complexity, and a distinct sense of place.
Key Characteristics
Cabernet Franc is medium-bodied with bright acidity, moderate tannins, and lifted aromatics. It typically features a mix of red and black fruits, peppery spice, and green herbal notes, often with a touch of graphite or mineral tension.
Style
Still, red
Body
Medium
Acidity
Medium to high
Primary Grapes
Cabernet Franc
Typical Flavors
Red cherry, raspberry, plum, bell pepper, violet, tobacco, graphite, dried herbs
Origin & History
Cabernet Franc is one of the original Bordeaux varieties and is a parent of both Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. While used in classic Bordeaux blends, it shines solo in France’s Loire Valley—especially in Chinon, Bourgueil, and Saumur-Champigny—where it produces elegant, aromatic reds with freshness and earthy complexity. In the New World, it's increasingly valued for its food-friendly structure and distinctive personality.
How It’s Made
Typically fermented in stainless steel or neutral vessels to preserve its delicate aromatics, Cabernet Franc may be aged in oak for added depth. Cooler-climate styles highlight freshness and herbal tones, while warmer regions yield richer, riper versions with more body and fruit.
Notable Regions
Cabernet Franc is grown globally, but certain regions bring out its best characteristics:
France
Loire Valley
Chinon, Bourgueil, Saumur-Champigny
Fresh, floral, and savory with bright acidity and mineral edge
France
Bordeaux
Right Bank
Adds perfume and finesse to blends with Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon
Italy
Friuli
Tuscany
Riper, fuller styles with spice and polish
United States
California
Finger Lakes
From plush and fruity to cool-climate herbal and structured
Canada
Ontario
Niagara Peninsula
Bright, red-fruited expressions with excellent balance
Argentina
Mendoza
Uco Valley
Elegant, high-altitude wines with floral lift and fine tannins
Food Pairings
Cabernet Franc’s acidity and herbal edge make it an excellent match for a wide range of dishes—especially those with earthy, green, or umami elements.
Meats
Roast chicken, duck breast, pork tenderloin
Cheeses
Goat cheese, aged Gouda, Gruyère
Vegetarian
Stuffed peppers, lentil stew, mushroom tart, eggplant dishes
How to Serve It
Glassware
Burgundy or universal red glass to highlight aroma and freshness
Temperature
58–62°F (14–17°C)
Storage
Store on its side in a cool, dark place; most drink well young, but top Loire or premium bottlings can age 5–15 years
Fun Fact
Cabernet Franc ripens earlier than Cabernet Sauvignon, making it a safer bet in cooler climates and a critical grape in challenging vintages.
Recommended Producers
These houses exemplify the diversity and craftsmanship of Cabernet Franc, from its Loire Valley roots to bold New World expressions.
Chappellet
A Napa Valley pioneer producing deeply expressive Cabernet Franc with mountain-grown structure and finesse.
Charles Joguet
A benchmark Chinon estate crafting terroir-driven wines that highlight the elegance and purity of Loire Cabernet Franc.
Domaine de la Chanteleuserie
A trusted name in Bourgueil, known for fresh, fruit-forward styles that remain true to tradition.
La Macchiole
A Tuscan innovator producing Paleo Rosso, a world-class Cabernet Franc that blends Italian soul with international polish.
Recommended Pours
Chappellet - Cabernet Franc 2019 — A rich and structured Napa Cab Franc with blackberry, graphite, and savory herb notes wrapped in fine tannins.
Charles Joguet - Chinon Cuvée Terroir 2021 — A vibrant and classic Loire Cabernet Franc with red currant, pepper, and earthy minerality.
Domaine de la Chanteleuserie - Bourgueil 2021 — A fresh and juicy Bourgueil showing bright cherry, floral lift, and a touch of spice.
La Macchiole, Paleo Rosso, 2018 — A powerful and elegant Tuscan Cabernet Franc with black fruit, tobacco, and a long, refined finish.