Cabernet Franc

Cabernet Franc is a medium-bodied red grape variety known for producing elegant, aromatic wines with moderate tannins and good acidity. It is less dense than Cabernet Sauvignon but offers distinctive herbal and red fruit flavors. The variety is valued both as a blending grape, particularly in Bordeaux blends, and as a single-varietal wine in Loire Valley appellations such as Chinon and Saumur.

Originated in Bordeaux, France

Ripening Period: Mid season

Moderate vigor

Moderate yield

Availability

Preferred Climate

Cabernet Franc prefers a moderate continental to maritime climate, performing best in regions with warm days and cool nights that allow aromatic development while preserving acidity. It adapts to a variety of soils but shows particular success in gravelly, sandy, and limestone-rich sites.

Viticultural Characteristics

Cabernet Franc produces medium-sized, loosely packed clusters with small to medium berries. Its thinner skins contribute to moderate tannin levels and allow earlier ripening than Cabernet Sauvignon. The vine exhibits moderate vigor and responds well to careful canopy management to optimize sunlight exposure and air circulation. It is relatively resistant to extreme weather but can be susceptible to frost and mildew in humid conditions. Cabernet Franc adapts to various soils, performing especially well in well-drained gravel, sand, or limestone, which enhance aromatic complexity.

Wine Profile

Cabernet Franc wines are marked by bright acidity, moderate alcohol, and medium body. Aromatically, they display red fruits such as raspberry, strawberry, and cherry, complemented by green pepper, herbs, floral notes, and subtle earthy undertones. On the palate, the wines are elegant and structured, with soft to moderate tannins and a refined, persistent finish. Younger wines show vibrant fruit and herbaceous character, while well-aged examples develop additional complexity, including tobacco, leather, and earthy nuances.

Clones

FPS 4 - Equivalent to French clone 332. Moderate to high vigor and yield, medium cluster sizes.

FPS 11 - Equivalent to French clone 214. Moderate to high vigor, moderate yield, medium cluster sizes. Ripens earlier than other clones.

FPS 12 - Equivalent to French clone 327.

FPS 13 - Equivalent to French clone 312. High vigor, moderate to high yield, medium to large cluster sizes.