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Cabernet Franc Wine for Delivery or Pickup
The Instacart guide to Cabernet Franc
Cabernet Franc is one of the most well-known black grape varieties in the world. It was originally sourced in southwest France in the Libournais region in Bordeaux. Typically, Cabernet Franc is a blending wine, most often combined with Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. It can also be used alone as it is in the Loire region's Chinon variety of Cabernet Franc grapes.
The first recorded evidence of this blue-black grape was during the 17th century when Cardinal Richelieu is said to have transported the vine to the Loire region. Within a century, the vine was all over southwestern France. Known for its pale red color and raspberry and pepper notes, this distinct wine is world-renowned.
There are many similarities between Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. However, Cabernet Franc is a slightly more resilient plant, ripening earlier than Sauvignon and capable of thriving in slightly cooler climates. Cabernet Franc can also adapt to many different soil types, making it a hearty and robust vine to grow. Cabernet Franc is also a lighter shade of red than Cabernet Sauvignon, however with a more intense flavor.
Cabernet Franc is also produced in Canada and the USA, but those specific blends are more commonly used for iced wine varieties. Traditional Cabernet Franc hails from France, where it is most acclimated to the temperatures and environment. There are also some varieties of Cabernet Franc that are cultivated in other European nations like Italy, Greece, Spain, Hungary, and more. However, the most full-bodied varieties of this wine thrive in their native France.
Cabernet Franc is known for its robust flavors which combine aromas like raspberry, pepper, tobacco, cassis, and violets. These intense aromas contribute to the finesse of this refined wine that offers a unique treat for the palate.
About Cabernet Franc
Cabernet Franc is a dry wine. It is not sweet and it has medium tannins and low levels of acidity. It is not a heavy wine yet it has a unique and distinct flavor. It is best served just below room temperature and pairs well with grilled meats or fish, and with herbs like mint and rosemary. Cabernet Franc is often used as a blending wine but is also quite delectable on its own.
Cabernet Franc from slightly warmer regions, such as Tuscany, may have a slightly sweeter taste to it. The original and more robust, medium-bodied variety from France is unique and unlike the Cabernet Francs from around the globe.
Cabernet Franc is also very sensitive to its environment. It is a yield-sensitive vine, meaning if it's grown around too many vines, more leaves will grow and result in a wine that has more vegetal notes in it. It needs to be adequately spaced out so the small, black fruit can grow to its fullest without being overcrowded by surrounding vines. This will result in a traditional Cabernet Franc with its noteworthy spicy aromas and taste.
Tips for picking out the best Cabernet Franc
- Choose a Cabernet Franc from the Bordeaux region of southwestern France
- Decant your Cabernet Franc for at least 30 minutes for a taste that is both softer and richer
- The best Cabernet Franc wine bottles will be aged around 5 years, though varieties aged 10-15 years have also been known to please the palate
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