Cabernet Franc, a grape of ancient lineage, is believed to have originated from southwestern France, likely in the Aquitaine region. This varietal has long been considered the ancestor of the Cabernets, including the globally renowned Cabernet Sauvignon.
While its beginnings are tied to Aquitaine, its presence expanded significantly when Cardinal de Richelieu introduced it to the Loire Valley. Along the banks of the Loire River, the grape found ideal growing conditions, flourishing in the cooler climate.
Wine Profile: Soft Elegance and Fullness
Cabernet Franc produces wines that are notably softer and less tannic than its more famous relative, Cabernet Sauvignon. Its viscosity creates a delightful mouthfeel, and when harvested at peak ripeness, it offers a rich, luscious experience. Wines made from Cabernet Franc often give a sense of fullness without the intense astringency commonly associated with Cabernet Sauvignon. Depending on the winemaking techniques, it can be enjoyed in its youth or matured for several years.
The grape thrives particularly well in limestone-clay soils, where it benefits from a steady water supply, essential in Mediterranean climates prone to drought. In temperate regions without water stress, Cabernet Franc also performs well on sandy soils, offering versatility to winemakers.
Ideal Climate: Temperate Regions with Balanced Summers
Given its origins in southwestern France, Cabernet Franc prefers temperate, even cooler climates. The grape thrives in regions with moderately warm summers, making the Loire Valley an ideal home for large-scale production. It requires regular irrigation, particularly in hotter areas, where water stress can affect the yield and quality. Pruning is also critical in warmer climates to limit vine loads and ensure grape concentration.
Susceptibility to Diseases and Pests
Cabernet Franc has moderate resistance to gray mold but is moderately susceptible to fungal diseases like eutypiosis and esca. Additionally, it is particularly vulnerable to leafhoppers, which can affect vine health. Despite these challenges, it remains a favorite among winemakers due to its adaptability and the quality of wines it produces.
Global Presence: A Rising Star
According to "Which Grape Varieties are Grown Where?" published by The University of Adelaide, in 2016, Cabernet Franc accounted for 56,000 hectares worldwide, representing 1.25% of global vineyard plantings. This positioned it as the 16th most planted grape variety globally. While France remains its primary home (32300 hectares), it has also found smaller yet notable acreages in countries like Austria (64 hectares), Bulgaria (240 hectares), and Moldova (756 hectares).
Aromatic Profile
One of the hallmark characteristics of Cabernet Franc is its distinct aromatic profile. Known for a core of raspberry, it also carries a refreshing note of blackcurrant leaf. Additional aromas often found in the wine include hints of strawberry, gooseberry, licorice, and violet, making it a bouquet that is both inviting and complex. These varied aromas make Cabernet Franc particularly attractive in blends and as a standalone wine.
Wine Tasting
We have chosen three Cabernet Francs from Bulgaria, Moldova, and Austria not only to reflect the growing excellence of Central and Eastern European winemaking but also offer a journey through distinct terroirs. By highlighting these wines, we invite wine lovers to explore these wine regions, showcasing the diversity and beauty of Cabernet Franc in a new and exciting light.
- Edoardo Miroglio, Cabernet Franc Elenovo Reserve 2020 presents an intense ruby color, enriched with brilliant purple nuances. On the nose, it is both elegant and spectacular. It opens with rich aromas of ripe black cherries and morello cherries, immediately signaling its ripeness and depth. These fruity notes are complemented by hints of caramel and licorice, as well as subtle undertones of cocoa, mushrooms, and a touch of spice. The palate is fresh and vibrant, with a medium body that is both juicy and well-developed. The fruit carries through with flavors of ripe berries and cherries, balanced by a mild acidity that keeps the wine lively. The structure is powerful yet refined, offering excellent balance between its ripe fruit profile, tannins, and acidity.
- Crama Mircesti, Cabernet Franc 2022 is a bold and expressive dry red wine that captures the essence of the terroir in Mircești, Moldova. The wine showcases a deep, intense red color. On the nose, expect an intriguing mix of dark fruit and vegetal notes. Blueberries and cherries dominate, with a distinctive bell pepper aroma that is characteristic of the variety. Subtle undertones of black pepper and spicy oak add depth, complemented by hints of vanilla from its 12 months of aging in wooden barrels. The wine is robust and full-bodied, offering a rich mouthfeel. The blueberry and cherry flavors persist, balanced by the savory bell pepper and a touch of spice. The tannins are well-integrated, giving structure and complexity to the wine, while the vanilla from oak aging adds smoothness and warmth to the finish. Despite its intensity, the wine retains a freshness that enhances its drinkability.
- Weingut MAD, Cabernet Franc Ried Neugebirge 2020 presents a deep, ruby-red hue with a hint of garnet around the edges. On the nose, this wine greets you with an elegant bouquet of currant fruit, intertwined with layers of high-quality toasting. The toasty aromas evoke memories of graphite, cloves, and the subtle nuttiness of burnt hazelnuts. Upon tasting, the wine unfolds with fleshy, fruity-sweet flavors that offer a delightful contrast to the noble toasting detected earlier. Behind this fruit-driven core lies a cool, smoky undertone that adds depth and intrigue. The tannins are present but mature, providing structure without overpowering the palate. The wine carries a full-bodied mouthfeel, with a powerful yet balanced presence.
Conclusion
Cabernet Franc, known by several other names such as Bordo, Bouchy, and Carmenet, remains a beloved grape for its balance of elegance, softness, and aromatic complexity. Whether grown in its native France or in vineyards around the world, it continues to captivate winemakers and wine lovers alike. With its versatility across different climates and soils, Cabernet Franc is truly a grape that exemplifies both tradition and adaptability.