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Apr 04, 2013
Cabernet Franc is a noble grape variety (vitus vinifera).
It generally produces medium to full bodied red wines with less intensity of colour and capacity for ageing than it's son, Cabernet Sauvignon.
Classically known one component in the famous red wines of Bordeaux and the red grape of the Loire Valley it is now grown around the world.
It is commonly blended (generally with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot) in most places it is grown but it seems to shine as a single varietal in places like the Loire Valley and British Columbia.
"Green" flavours (caused by pyrazines) common in Cabernet Franc are more common in cooler climates with shorter growing seasons. With longer growing seasons, aka time on vine these pyrazine or "green" flavours are greatly diminished. Because Cabernet Franc is an earlier ripening variety it can succeed in climates cooler than Cabernet Sauvignon.
Classic Descriptors:
Although common descriptors of Cabernet Franc include: red berries (currents, raspberry), peppery spice, roasted cocoa, purple floral tones and green bell pepper or green olives it will also reflect the region or terroir it is grown in.
Additional:
Cabernet Franc is grown around the world from Eastern Europe to Italy, Spain and Portugal as well as France. It appears in South America, North America, New Zealand, South Africa and Australia. Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc are the genetic parents of Cabernet Sauvignon.
~Daenna Van Mulligen
Related:
Learn more about Pinot Noir
Learn more about Cabernet Sauvignon
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