Cabernet Franc Day

Cabernet Franc is believed to have been established in the Libournais region of southwest France sometime in the 17th century, when Cardinal Richelieu transported vine cuttings to the Loire Valley. Records of Cabernet Franc in Bordeaux go back to the end of the 18th century, although it was planted in Loire long before that time.

In 1997, DNA evidence emerged to show that Cabernet Franc had crossed with Sauvignon blanc to produce Cabernet Sauvignon.

Cabernet Franc is lighter than Cabernet Sauvignon, making a bright pale red wine that contributes finesse and lends a peppery perfume to blends with more robust grapes.