Cabernet Franc Day

Cabernet Franc is believed to have been established in the Libournais region of southwest France sometime in the 17th century when Cardinal Richelieu transported vine cuttings to the Loire Valley.

These previous vine cuttings were planted at the Abbey of Bourgueil under the care of an abbot named Breton, whose name became associated with the grape.

By the 18th century, plantings of Cabernet Franc (known as Bouchet) were found throughout Fronsac, Pomerol, and St. Emilion, with the intention of turning them into quality wines.

As Cabernet Sauvignon grew more popular in the 18th and 19th centuries, the close similarity of the two grapes was observed and theories emerged as to the extent of their relationship.

In 1997, DNA evidence emerged to show that, at some point, Cabernet Franc had crossed with Sauvignon blanc to produce Cabernet Sauvignon. Experts believe that this happened by chance and were simply accidental cross-contamination, rather than a planned event.

Records of Cabernet Franc in Bordeaux go back to the end of the 18th century, although it was believed to be planted in the Loire long before that time. DNA analysis also indicates that Cabernet Franc is one of two parents of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Carmenere, in addition to being a parent of Malbec.

Cabernet Franc is one of the major black grape varieties worldwide. It is principally grown for blending with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot in the Bordeaux style, but can also be vinified alone as in the Loire’s Chinon.

Cabernet Franc is lighter than Cabernet Sauvignon, making a bright, pale red wine that contributes finesse and lends a peppery perfume to blends with more robust grapes.

This wine has a unique taste that is a bit spicy and contains a medium to high level of tannins and acidity (although it tends to be lower in tannins and acids than Cabernet Sauvignon).

Depending on the growing region and style of wine, additional aromas can include tobacco, raspberry, bell pepper, cassis, and violets. It might also come with some tart notes that sit alongside hints of berries and plums.

Although they originated in France, Cab Franc grapes are now grown in most wine-producing countries all over the globe, and are mostly used with other grapes to make blended wines.

In recent years, Cabernet Franc is experiencing a lovely renewal of interest in North America, including places such as Washington, California, New York, and even up north in Canada.