Cabernet Franc: A Grape for the World, the U.S., and for Us

Cabernet Franc is one of the world’s grapes. Starting in Bordeaux, it’s the parent of Cabernet Sauvignon — being thinner skinned with lower acidity and a more vegetative quality. However, it is a hardy grape that ripens quickly and can grow both in warmer and colder grape growing regions.

With its resiliency and flexibility, it’s no surprise how far it’s travelled. Within France, Cardinal Richelieu moved it northwest to become a prized red grape in the Loire Valley. Out of France, you can find Cabernet Franc planting roots from Italy to Australia, continuing around the globe to Argentina and Chile.

Here in the U.S., California and Oregon have become homes from Cabernet Franc as well as New York and, of course, Virginia. Possessing loose clusters, Cab Franc can handle our cursed humidity. While retaining its acidity in colder climates, its fruit notes become brighter in our warm climate. Today, Cabernet Franc is the most planted grape in the state.

For this year’s International Cabernet Franc Day, please join Kris Nelson from importer / distributor Williams Corner Wine anytime from 5:00 to 6:30 to taste Cabernet Francs from Virginia and elsewhere.

Enrich your holiday season with our free, walk-up tastings.