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