Cabernet Franc Wine
Central Oregon

Cabernet Franc Wine is a grape variety that plays a key role in some of the world's finest wines. Whether it stands alone or serves as a blending agent, Cabernet Franc typically imparts flavors of brambly berries and wild strawberries, along with unique bell pepper and herbal notes that range from mint and chamomile to cigar tobacco and more.

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Where Does Cabernet Franc Wine Come From?
Cabernet Franc is intrinsically linked to France, much like other renowned varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir. Depending on the region, it may serve either as a blending partner or the main component. In Bordeaux, it ranks among the five principal grape varieties, alongside Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, and Petit Verdot. Its most notable presence is on the Right Bank, where prestigious châteaux like Cheval Blanc and Lafleur incorporate substantial amounts of Cabernet Franc.

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In Napa Valley, wines labeled as Cabernet Sauvignon often include a touch of Cabernet Franc. This variety is also gaining significance in Chile and Argentina, and it can be found in Australia, South Africa, Canada, Virginia, and Italy, where Ornellaia, a celebrated Super Tuscan, includes it in its blend. In essence, Cabernet Franc is more widespread than many realize, even if it doesn't always take center stage.

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Why Should You Drink Cabernet Franc Wine?
Cabernet Franc is a grape variety that, despite not receiving universal acclaim, holds immense importance in the wine industry. Its role as a blending partner is unmatched, and it is increasingly favored as a single-varietal wine.

When it comes to food pairings, Cabernet Franc shines: its flavors of brambly berries, wild strawberries, and occasionally plum-like fruit complement richer sauces beautifully, while its subtle spice pairs wonderfully with dry rubs and intricate spice blends. For example, enjoying Cabernet Franc with sweet-spicy smoked meats is always a winning choice.

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However, Cabernet Franc isn't limited to meat and rich proteins; it also pairs well with more vegetable-forward dishes. For instance, it complements vegetarian bean chili exceptionally — just be cautious with spicy heat, as too much can disrupt the wine's balance. A little bit of heat, however, is perfectly fine.

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Cabernet Franc can be crafted in various styles. Semi-carbonic or carbonic maceration yields a bright and energetic wine, while extended skin contact leads to a richer flavor profile. Additionally, it can be made in a sweet style: Late-harvest and ice wine Cabernet Franc from the North Fork of Long Island and Canada's Niagara region, respectively, produce delightful wines that pair wonderfully with desserts, particularly those featuring chocolate and cheese.

From a collector's perspective, Cabernet Franc presents diverse aging options: Bottles with longer maceration periods and extended oak aging can endure for more extended periods than their counterparts. The finest examples can age for decades, especially in the classic blends from Bordeaux's Right Bank and select top vineyards worldwide. Generally, great, age-worthy Cabernet Franc tends to be more affordable than its Cabernet Sauvignon counterparts.

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What Does Cabernet Franc Taste Like?
Like all grape varieties, the serving temperature and winemaking methods significantly influence the flavor profile of Cabernet Franc. A cooler glass highlights herbal and bell pepper notes, while a warmer glass allows the brambly berries, wild strawberries, and plums to shine more vividly. In any case, the best examples showcase bell peppers, spice, and herbal flavors and aromas, often accompanied by hints of minerality and tobacco. If aged in new oak, the wine may also reveal sweet spices and chocolate undertones.