Cabernet Franc

Cabernet Franc is a red wine grape and one of the three contributing varietals to Bordeaux wine in France, with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Alongside Sauvignon Blanc, it is the genetic parent of Cabernet Sauvignon, after a natural crossing in the 17th Century. DNA analysis indicates that Cabernet Franc is also one of two parents of Merlot and Carménère.

The majority of this varietal comes from France, Italy, the United States, Hungary, and Chile. Only around 40 vineyards are listed as producers in Australia. You will find great single-varietal examples in the cooler regions of Yarra Valley and Orange. Tamburlaine offers an age-worthy reserve that deserves some time in the cellar before being fully enjoyed.

Aromas

The aromatic profile of Cabernet Franc is vibrant and layered. It can have floral notes of violet and rose petals, herbaceous aromas of green pepper, dried thyme, or eucalyptus, spicy notes of white pepper, and sometimes subtle baking spices from oak ageing.

Flavours

Cabernet Franc is renowned for its distinctive flavour profile, which balances fruit, herbaceous, and spice elements. Its primary flavours are red fruits like raspberry, strawberry, red plum, and red currant, with secondary notes of green pepper, dried herbs, and liquorice. Tertiary flavours of tobacco, cedar, and earthy notes may be found in aged wines.

Tannin and Body

It has moderate to high tannins but is generally softer and silkier than Cabernet Sauvignon, making it approachable even in youth. It is medium-bodied, offering a balanced mouthfeel that is less intense than its fuller-bodied counterparts, like Cabernet Sauvignon.

Cool v Warm climate

The expression of Cabernet Franc varies significantly depending on the growing climate:

Cool-climate wines can have flavours of sour cherry and crisp red fruits like cranberry and raspberry, with pronounced herbaceous and green pepper notes. Their higher acidity lends the wine a bright, fresh character. Softer and more integrated tannins offer an elegant, restrained style. You will find these in regions like the Loire Valley in France.

Warm-climate wines can have flavours of ripe black fruits like blackberry and plum, with reduced herbaceousness and more prominent spice. Lower acidity gives a rounder and fuller palate. Firmer and more structured tannins are often accompanied by oak influence. You will find these in regions like California, Tuscany, and parts of Australia.

Listed below are the wineries that produce Cabernet Franc.

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