Cabernet Franc

It’s easy to mistake Cabernet Franc for Cabernet Sauvignon lite. Cab Franc buds and ripens earlier than Cab Sauv, it’s lighter in tannins, colour and body than the king of grapes, and typically matures earlier in the bottle. In reality, Cab Franc predates and even begat the king, as Cabernet Sauvignon is a cross between parents Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc.

While the peppery, perfumed and finessed Franc can certainly hold its own, it is often selected to play a supporting, rather than starring role. It has proven to be an excellent blending partner to its heir, especially when accompanied by Merlot, as in Bordeaux and Meritage blends. Here, the green tinged raspberry, herbal tobacco, cassis and leafy notes add a fresh and lifted seasoning note to the blend. Dependable Franc is considered viticultural insurance in the vineyard, ripening in cooler years when Cabernet Sauvignon won’t. The grape is well accustomed to cooler climates; it was found in France’s Loire Valley in the 17th century, planted at the Abbey of Bourgueil under the care of Abbot Breton (Breton is one synonym for the grape).

Cabernet Franc is an indie darling of many BC winemakers, who appreciate the complementary savoury and herbal notes of this characterful blue-black grape.