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Cabernet Franc vs Merlot

How to tell them apart in a blind tasting

The clearest separator between Cabernet Franc and Merlot is acidity: Cabernet Franc is Medium(+) while Merlot is Medium. Lead with that to resolve the blind call.

Step 02

Cabernet Franc vs Merlot

Compare structure side by side, then resolve the close-call with the right separator.

Primary separator

Cabernet Franc leans red-currant fruit, leafy lift, and medium body; Merlot leans plum-led fruit, softer tannin, and rounder mid-palate.

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Aroma Markers

Cabernet Franc more likely markers

  • bell pepper
  • pencil shavings
  • tobacco

Merlot more likely markers

  • black cherry
  • chocolate
  • plum

Decision Cues

Most useful separators

  • Cabernet Franc leans red-currant fruit, leafy lift, and medium body; Merlot leans plum-led fruit, softer tannin, and rounder mid-palate.

High-signal differences

  • Acidity: Cabernet Franc slightly higher (Medium(+) vs Medium).
  • Tannin: Cabernet Franc slightly higher (Medium(+) vs Medium).
  • Body: Merlot slightly higher (Medium vs Medium(+)).
  • Alcohol: Merlot slightly higher (Medium vs Medium).
Structure fingerprint
Cabernet FrancMerlot
Acidity
Tannin
Body
Alcohol
Color intensity
Aromatic intensity

Reference context

Cabernet Franc

Classic regions:

  • Bordeaux
  • Finger Lakes
  • Friuli
  • Loire Valley

Style examples:

  • Chinon
  • Savory medium-bodied varietal red
  • Aromatic blending component in Bordeaux-style wines

Merlot

Classic regions:

  • Napa Valley
  • Pomerol
  • Saint-Emilion
  • Ticino

Style examples:

  • Right Bank Bordeaux
  • Plush right-bank blend component
  • Rounded oak-aged varietal red

Common questions

How do you tell Cabernet Franc and Merlot apart in a blind tasting?

The clearest separator between Cabernet Franc and Merlot is acidity: Cabernet Franc is Medium(+) while Merlot is Medium. Lead with that to resolve the blind call.

Is Cabernet Franc or Merlot higher in acidity?

On the WSET ladder, Cabernet Franc is Medium(+) and Merlot is Medium for acidity.

Are Cabernet Franc and Merlot red or white?

Cabernet Franc and Merlot are both red grape varieties.

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