Calling Cabernet Franc lovers!!

December 4th is Cab Franc Day

On International Cabernet Franc Day, wine enthusiasts around the world come together to celebrate this grape's unique qualities and the wines it produces, from the vibrant Okanagan Valley to the historic vineyards of France's Loire Valley and so much more. Thanks to Lori Budd of Dracaena Wines for establishing this day. Let’s raise a glass to Cabernet Franc, its history and style. Sip, sip, hooray! If you need recommendations read on. 

From Napa, to Hungary and right here in British Columbia, expressions of Cabernet Franc are increasing to the delight of Cab Franc lovers!

​Cabernet Franc has a rich history and a significant presence in the world of wine. Cabernet Franc is considered the "original cabernet", parent to Cabernet Sauvignon and ranks as the sixth most widely planted grape variety in France. It’s home. While Cabernet Franc is the blending partner to famous Bordeaux reds from the left bank featuring Cabernet Sauvignon and right bank featuring Merlot, it stands on its own merits in far reaching unique regions including Chinon and Bourgueil (France), Villányi  (Hungary), Mendoza (Argentina), Italy, Brazil and here in the Okanagan Valley of B.C and the Niagara Escarpment in Ontario. Every 4th of December, wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs come together to celebrate Cab Franc on International Cabernet Franc Day. Pick up a bottle, snap a picture and then post on social using hashtags #CabFrancDay; #CabFranc; #CabernetFrancDay; #CabernetFranc. 

History of Cabernet Franc

Cabernet Franc is often regarded as "Bordeaux's third in line for greatness," and holds a special place in the hearts of wine lovers for its vibrant expressions. It all began in the 17th century with Cardinal Richelieu and his love for a particular blue-black grape which he transported to vineyards in Bordeaux and the Loire Valley. December 4th is the anniversary of his death and an appropriate salute to Cab Franc.

Adaptability

Cabernet Franc's ability to ripen earlier than many other varieties makes it well-suited for cooler climates and regions, where it can excel in producing vibrant and delicious wines. One of the key features of Cabernet Franc is its adaptability to different soil types, with a preference for sandy chalky soils that result in fuller-bodied wines. Different expressions from diverse climates and soils give rise to the intrigue of Cabernet Franc from the cool soils of Bordeaux to the limestone “tuffeau" and alluvial soils of the Loire Valley. ​

Style à la Cab Franc

Cabernet Franc is vegetal, but vegetal in a good way. Stylistically medium to full bodied, dry red wine, with medium acidity, perfumed with black and red fruits like berry, plum and currant aromas with violet floral notes. It’s earthy with dark pepper spice and silky tannins which make for a well balanced and enjoyable sip that requires less patience waiting for Cabernet Sauvignon to relax and prettier aromas compared to Merlot. To manage its characteristic bell pepper note, vintners often keep yields low, emphasizing quality over quantity in the pursuit of crafting exceptional Cabernet Franc wines.

Cabernet Franc Wine Recommendations

​Here are three interesting styles of Cabernet Franc to ask for at your favorite wine shop.

Mendoza, Argentina 
Bodega Catena Zapata San Carlos Cabernet Franc 2020
Although Mendoza is the birthplace of most Argentinian wines, the production landscape is slowly transforming as beautifully illustrated by this fruity, floral and spicy Cabernet Franc, born in San Carlos. It's the signature quality by Catena Zapata. Pair this wine with grilled pepper steak.

Lillooet, British Columbia
Fort Berens Cabernet Franc 2022 
Fort Berens is a wine pioneer in British Columbia establishing their vineyard property a decade ago in remote, hot and dry community of Lillooet, BC. The excitement around Cabernet Franc is real and this is a signature red for Fort Berens. The aromas and flavours feature blackberries, plums, and violets with smooth tannins and a soft finish. Delicious. 
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Saumur Champigny, France
Domaine Filliatreau 2020 
92 Points, Wine Enthusiast: "Ripe and juicy, this full bodied fine wine has great black-currant fruits. With its smoky edge and spice, the wine is perfumed and bursting with vibrant flavours." (December 2022). This is available at BC Liquor Stores in BC. As of 2021, all vineyards at Domaine Filliatreau are farmed organically.