What to Pair Your Cabernet Franc With

3 Recipes for Cabernet Franc

Roast chicken or pork

Roast chicken or pork

Description :

The wine’s acidity cuts through the fattiness of these meats, enhancing their flavors.

Soft, fresh cheeses

Soft, fresh cheeses

Description :

The wine’s acidity and fruitiness pair well with the creamy texture and mild flavors of soft cheeses.

Grilled vegetables

Grilled vegetables

Description :

The wine’s herbal and vegetal notes match well with the smoky, savory flavors of grilled veggies.

More on Cabernet Franc

Cabernet Franc

Cabernet Franc is a versatile red grape variety that has gained popularity as both a blending grape in Bordeaux-style wines and as a single-varietal wine in cooler climates. It is known for its herbaceous qualities, distinct aromas, and lighter body compared to Cabernet Sauvignon.

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%

Popular Locations for Cabernet Franc

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