Cabernet Franc,

a distinct and foundational varietal, a necessary piece of knowledge for an aspiring connoisseur.

The Cabernet Franc, a blue-black skinned grape rich in history and flavor, also known as Bouchet has spanned the centuries consistently influencing the industry and causing anticipation for those sophisticated palates.

Region

The southwest region of France, rich in history, specifically Bordeaux and Aquitaine in the Bordeaux region, and the Loire River Valley are strongly believed to be the home of the Cabernet Franc.  The Cabernet Franc vinified alone and for the purpose of blending.  A varietal loyally used for making wine, consistently referenced and the Cabernet ancestor to the Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and the Carménère.

Pairing

The Cabernet Franc being a bit lighter than the Cabernet Sauvignon has a wider variety of dishes that it can be paired with; red meat, white meat, and even some fish dishes.  A strong consideration to pairing the Cabernet Franc or any wine with any dish are the seasonings, where typically the Cabernet Sauvignon would not be paired with a fish the Cabernet Franc could go well with a hearty fish seasoned appropriately for this lighter red wine.

For those who like red meat and wine already know that with consideration of seasonings pairing red with red is a safe combination.  Other Cabernet Franc pairing considerations are baked or roasted foods, olives, French cuisine, and herbaceous dishes.

Connoisseur Components

Look for color, swirl to release the notes, smell for aroma and flavor, sip for confirmation or revelation.

Remembering Your Cabernet Franc Experience

The history of the Cabernet Franc gives roots to your future understanding of many different varietals; it will ground your conversations with recognition of respect for the industry.  If you find yourself discussing wine with a Sommelier and they can tell that you have invested yourself in the history your conversation will take a direction of respectful instruction as opposed to condescending comments which are the type of comments that “know it all” arrogance makes.  Separate yourself from the arrogant, speak fact and admit your level of knowledge humbly and a Sommelier will gladly share a secret or two in support of your effort to be a connoisseur.

For the weekend wine drinker a depth of knowledge is not necessary.  There are plenty of good tasting wines for the average and undistinguishing palate, this is not a demeaning statement it simply means that many can enjoy what they are drinking without knowing why they are enjoying the drink and that is completely ok.

After many years of drinking from that stage you may want to have a better seat in the house, you may want to have a more enriching conversation with a veteran, connoisseur, or Sommelier.  If you have been drinking wine for a while and simply want to challenge yourself I strongly suggest expanding your knowledge of the history of Wine.  Knowing the Cabernet Franc and its history makes for a respectable beginning in developing a solid foundation of knowledge in an exciting and rewarding industry.

Where To Go Next

For the true amateur a logical next step after learning about the Cabernet Franc would be to learn about the descendants of the Cabernet Franc; the Cabernet Sauvignon, the Merlot and the Carménère of which I mentioned earlier.