Cabernet Franc: The Companion
- Cabernet Franc is one of the Bordeaux blending grapes
- It is a partner of Merlot in right bank Bordeaux blends – Pomerol and St. Emilion
- Parent of Cabernet Sauvignon
- Ripens earlier than Cabernet Sauvignon
- Lighter in color than Cabernet Sauvignon
- Aromas of tobacco, raspberry, bell pepper, cassis, violet – similar to Cabernet Sauvignon
- It is made into a single varietal wine in the central Loire valley regions of Chinon and Bourgeuil
American single varietal Cabernet Franc
- California
- Missouri
- Michigan
- Long Island
- Finger Lakes
- Washington State
- Virginia (becoming the state’s signature red grape)
Cabernet Franc – Cold Hardiness
- Washington State, New York State (Long Island and the Finger Lakes), Michigan, and Virginia have done well with Cabernet Franc
- The wood of the Cabernet Franc vine has a better ability to withstand winter freezes common in these areas than do Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon
- A good example of using the appropriate grape for the growing environment
