Tasting Notes and Flavor Profile
Cabernet Franc is known for its fresh and vibrant flavors, with a profile that often includes red fruit notes like raspberry, cherry, and strawberry, along with earthy undertones of green bell pepper, tobacco, and herbs. This wine typically has medium tannins and acidity, which makes it approachable but still structured. In warmer climates, Cabernet Franc can express more rounded fruit flavors with a hint of spice, while cooler regions highlight its herbaceous, savory qualities. Its ability to show both fruitiness and herbal complexity makes it a unique choice for wine lovers seeking depth without the heaviness of more tannic reds.
Which Cabernet Franc Should I Try First?
If you're new to Cabernet Franc, start with a Loire Valley Cabernet Franc, such as Chinon or Bourgueil, which offer classic expressions of the grape with vibrant acidity and earthy, herbal flavors. For a more fruit-forward option, try a California Cabernet Franc, such as St. Supery Estate Vineyards or The Vineyardist Cabernet Franc, which is typically rounder with richer fruit and spice notes. If you're looking for something with a bit more complexity and ageability, Argentine Cabernet Franc offers a nice balance of fruit and savory characteristics with a smooth finish.
How Should I Drink Cabernet Franc?
Cabernet Franc is best served slightly below room temperature, around 60-65°F (15-18°C), to bring out its bright fruit flavors and balanced acidity. While this wine can be enjoyed immediately, some more structured or aged expressions benefit from decanting:
- Neat: Serve it in a tulip-shaped glass to fully appreciate its aromatic complexity and fruit-forward flavors.
- On the Rocks: If you prefer a chilled experience, Cabernet Franc can be served over ice, especially on warm days.
- In Cocktails: While less common in cocktails, you can incorporate Cabernet Franc into wine spritzers or sangria for a refreshing twist.
What Foods Pair Well with Cabernet Franc?
Cabernet Franc’s bright acidity and herbal qualities make it a great match for a variety of foods:
- Grilled Meats: The acidity of Cabernet Franc balances well with grilled meats, such as steak, lamb, or pork.
- Cheese: Pair it with soft cheeses like brie, goat cheese, or cheddar, which complement its fresh, earthy flavors.
- Tomato-Based Dishes: Cabernet Franc pairs beautifully with pasta dishes that have tomato-based sauces, such as spaghetti bolognese, pizza, or eggplant parmesan.
- Herb-Infused Dishes: Foods with herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil work well with the herbal undertones of Cabernet Franc, such as roast chicken, grilled vegetables, or herb-stuffed pork loin.
How Long Does Cabernet Franc Last After Opening?
Once opened, Cabernet Franc typically lasts 3-5 days when stored in the fridge with a wine stopper. The wine’s acidity helps preserve its freshness, but it’s best to consume it within a few days to enjoy its vibrant fruit flavors and aromatic complexity. If you’re drinking a younger bottle, you can enjoy it for a bit longer, but more aged Cabernet Francs are best enjoyed soon after opening.
Does Cabernet Franc Improve with Age?
Yes, Cabernet Franc can improve with age, particularly wines from regions like the Loire Valley and California. As it ages, the wine’s tannins soften, and the flavors become more complex, with notes of dried fruit, tobacco, and spice emerging. Older Cabernet Francs, particularly those from premium vineyards, can develop a smoother, more refined profile, making them excellent choices for collectors and wine enthusiasts who enjoy wines with more depth.
Explore our Cabernet Franc collection and discover the unique, aromatic qualities of this exceptional grape. Whether you're enjoying a classic French Chinon, a fruit-forward Californian version, or a structured Argentine bottle, Cabernet Franc offers a refreshing, complex alternative to more well-known red wines. Perfect for any occasion, this wine is as versatile as it is flavorful.
