Blog: Cabernet-Franc | Grape variety

Cabernet Franc is a black-skinned wine grape variety. As a varietal wine, Cabernet Franc is delicate and aromatic, especially when young. It shares many of the same characteristics as Cabernet Sauvignon, but differs in its distinct green, vegetal notes, which can range from leaves to garrigue to green peppers. This has led many wine drinkers to misidentify Cabernet Franc as immature Cabernet Sauvignon or even Carmenère.

In cooler winemaking regions, the variety exhibits graphite and red licorice notes, while warmer climates tend to have cigar and leather aromas. As an ice wine, Cabernet Franc produces intense aromas and flavors of strawberries. When combined with other grape varieties, it adds herbaceous accents of tobacco and dark spices for a softer and rounder mouthfeel. Cabernet Franc is lighter than Cabernet Sauvignon and produces a bright, pale red wine that contributes finesse and a peppery perfume when blended with more robust grapes. Depending on the growing region and wine style, additional aromas may include tobacco, raspberry, cassis and sometimes even violet. - Gerardo [TS01/23]