1. Home
  2. Food & Drink
  3. Wine

Cabernet Franc

By , About.com Guide

Definition: A thin-skinned red grape that grows particularly well in cooler climates, and is originally from the Bourdeaux and Loire Valley regions of France. The Cabernet Franc has been grown with success in France, Australia, Chile, Canada, South Africa, California and Washington, producing a fruity wine that is softer and more subdued than its regal relative, Cabernet Sauvignon.

Flavor Profile:

With lower tannin levels and more distinct berry (mainly blueberry, raspberry and sometimes plum) flavor, Cabernet Franc is an ideal candidate for blending with other varietals such as Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. However, more producers have been selling Cabernet Franc as a stand alone, single varietal on merchant shelves with notable success.

Food Pairings: poultry, lasagna, couscous with meat, Middle Eastern fare, veggie pizza, and Greek cuisine.

Cabernet Franc Recommendations:

    Couly Dutheil Chinon Les Gravieres, Loire Valley $12
    Stonegate Winery Cabernet Franc $16
    Walla Walla Vintners Columbia Cabernet Franc $30
    Cosentino Winery Cabernet Franc $35
Pronunciation: Cah-bur-nay Frahnk
Also Known As: Chinon Cabernet Frank
Alternate Spellings: Cabernet Frank

Explore Wine

About.com Special Features

Holiday Central

What to eat, where to go, fun things to do and how to save money on the perfect gifts. More >

All-Star Football Food

Try these gameday recipes that are sure to please any fan. More >

  1. Home
  2. Food & Drink
  3. Wine
  4. Vineyard Vocab
  5. Cabernet Franc

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.