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Cabernet Franc |
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In the vineyard, Cabernet Franc can be hard to distinguish from Cabernet Sauvignon. Recent genetic testing identified Cabernet Franc as one the parents of Cabernet Sauvignon (the other parent is Sauvignon Blanc), which could be why the vines are so similar. Cabernet Franc has the advantage, though, of ripening earlier than Cabernet Sauvignon, which can be helpful in cooler climates. As a wine, Cabernet Franc tends to be lighter in body and a little more herbacious in aroma than Cabernet Sauvignon, which makes it appealing to drink earlier. Fair Play seems to be particularly well-suited to making excellent Cabernet Franc. |
One of several cousins in the Cabernet family of varietals, Cabernet Franc is widely grown in the Bordeaux and Loire regions of France, in Italy, and increasingly in California. It's often used in a blend with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot - as in Meritage wines in California - but it can make delicious wine on its own.
