Cabernet Franc

Cabernet Franc has proven to be very robust and produce good quality red wines in a range of climates. This is a clue to its diversity of tastes. From tart red fruit flavours in cooler climates such to more dried fruit flavours and fuller bodied wines in warmer areas such as Tuscany and California. You’ll also find a mixture of savoury, tart, and herbal flavours in moderate climates, such as Bordeaux.

On the nose, Cabernet Franc has a distinctive herbaceous and bell-pepper aroma. It can also smell like red fruits and even like pencil lead. With cooler climates you’ll find violet notes and warmer climates expect dried fruit flavours, and cayenne pepper notes.

On the palate Cabernet Franc has high levels of zesty acidity. It also can have relatively high tannins, though less than Cabernet Sauvignon. Wines from cooler climates have slightly lower tannin whereas in warmer climates you’ll find more tannin.