All About Cabernet Franc

Appearance

  • Color: Typically a pale red to ruby hue.
  • Opacity: Light to medium; less dense than other red wines like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon.

Aroma

  • Primary Aromas: Raspberry, strawberry, and blackcurrant, often with a notable green bell pepper scent due to methoxypyrazines.
  • Secondary Aromas: Red pepper, peppercorn, and herbs such as oregano and fresh greens.
  • Tertiary Aromas: With aging, notes of dried fruit, smoky tomato, and sometimes earthy qualities like wet gravel or tobacco can develop.

Flavor Profile

  • Fruit Flavors: Raspberry, strawberry, cherry, and blackberry.
  • Other Flavors: Bell pepper, jalapeño, herbs, and occasionally mushroom or earthy tones.
  • Oak Influence: Depending on the region and aging process, flavors can include vanilla, chocolate, baking spices, and a hint of smokiness.

Structure

  • Body: Medium-bodied, providing a balanced mouthfeel.
  • Tannins: Medium to high, giving the wine a slight astringency but usually smoother than Cabernet Sauvignon.
  • Acidity: Medium to high, contributing to its fresh, vibrant taste.
  • Alcohol: Ranges from 12.5% to 14.5%

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Pairings for Cabernet Franc

Roast chicken or pork

Roast chicken and pork are classic, versatile dishes that offer rich, savory flavors. Roast chicken, with its crispy skin and tender meat, pairs beautifully with a variety of wines depending on the herbs and spices used. Pork, especially roasted with apples or herbs, presents a perfect balance of fattiness and sweetness. Both dishes benefit from wines that have enough acidity to cut through their richness while enhancing the savory and sometimes sweet flavors of the meat

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Soft, fresh cheeses

Soft, fresh cheeses are delightful dairy products known for their creamy textures and mild flavors. Varieties like mozzarella, burrata, ricotta, and cream cheese are popular examples. These cheeses are often made from cow's, goat's, or sheep's milk and are characterized by their high moisture content and short aging periods, which help preserve their fresh taste. Soft, fresh cheeses can be enjoyed on their own, spread on bread or crackers, or incorporated into salads, pastas, and various dishes, adding a rich, velvety element that enhances overall flavor.

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Grilled vegetables

Grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, develop rich, smoky flavors from the grilling process. This caramelization enhances their natural sweetness and imparts a savory, slightly charred taste. Grilled vegetables are versatile and can serve as a side dish or the main feature in vegetarian meals. The high heat of the grill creates crispy edges while keeping the inside tender. These veggies pair well with light to medium-bodied wines that complement their earthiness without overwhelming their subtle flavors

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