What does Cabernet Franc taste like?

Cabernet Franc is more fragrant and lighter-bodied than Cabernet Sauvignon — think violet, raspberry, red cherry, green herbs (pencil shavings, capsicum), graphite and a characteristic mineral quality. Loire Cabernet Franc (Chinon, Bourgueil) is particularly perfumed and refreshing. Warmer-climate versions from California or Italy are richer but retain the variety's herbal character.

What is the difference between Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon?

Cabernet Franc ripens earlier and in cooler climates than Cabernet Sauvignon. It is lighter in colour, has softer tannins, more perfumed aromatics and a characteristic herbal, mineral freshness. Cabernet Sauvignon is more powerful, tannic and fruit-forward. Both are found in Bordeaux blends, where they complement each other beautifully.

Should Cabernet Franc be aged?

Loire Cabernet Franc from good producers (Chinon, Bourgueil) can age surprisingly well — 5-10 years for village wines, 10-20 years for single-vineyard examples. The wines develop extraordinary complexity: dried herbs, leather, tobacco, graphite and earthy depth.

What food pairs with Cabernet Franc?

Loire Cabernet Franc is superb with charcuterie, grilled pork, rabbit, pheasant, goats cheese and mushroom dishes. The herbal freshness of the wine cuts beautifully through richness. Warmer-climate versions suit lamb, duck and richer meat dishes.

What does Cabernet Franc taste like?

Cabernet Franc is more fragrant and lighter-bodied than Cabernet Sauvignon — think violet, raspberry, red cherry, green herbs (pencil shavings, capsicum), graphite and a characteristic mineral quality. Loire Cabernet Franc (Chinon, Bourgueil) is particularly perfumed and refreshing. Warmer-climate versions from California or Italy are richer but retain the variety's herbal character.

What is the difference between Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon?

Cabernet Franc ripens earlier and in cooler climates than Cabernet Sauvignon. It is lighter in colour, has softer tannins, more perfumed aromatics and a characteristic herbal, mineral freshness. Cabernet Sauvignon is more powerful, tannic and fruit-forward. Both are found in Bordeaux blends, where they complement each other beautifully.

Should Cabernet Franc be aged?

Loire Cabernet Franc from good producers (Chinon, Bourgueil) can age surprisingly well — 5-10 years for village wines, 10-20 years for single-vineyard examples. The wines develop extraordinary complexity: dried herbs, leather, tobacco, graphite and earthy depth.

What food pairs with Cabernet Franc?

Loire Cabernet Franc is superb with charcuterie, grilled pork, rabbit, pheasant, goats cheese and mushroom dishes. The herbal freshness of the wine cuts beautifully through richness. Warmer-climate versions suit lamb, duck and richer meat dishes.