Cabernet Franc
Red wine grape variety
Also known as Bouchet
Cabernet Franc is a red wine grape with signature aromas of pencil shavings, tobacco, bell pepper. Structure: Medium body, Medium(+) acidity, Medium(+) tannin, Medium alcohol. Often confused with Cabernet Sauvignon and…
Recognition cues
First checks
- Look for aromatic lift and herbal edge with medium body.
- Confirm tannin is firm but less massive than Cabernet Sauvignon (#1929).
Confidence signals
- Red-currant and violet notes
- Leafy/herbal accent with freshness
Aromas
Signature
Common
Occasional
Commonly confused with
Classic anchors
- Classic regions: Loire Valley · Bordeaux · Friuli · Finger Lakes
- Classic styles: Savory medium-bodied varietal red · Aromatic blending component in Bordeaux-style wines
Common questions
Is Cabernet Franc a red or white grape variety?
Cabernet Franc is a red wine grape variety.
What does Cabernet Franc smell and taste like?
Signature aromas of Cabernet Franc include pencil shavings, tobacco and bell pepper. Structural profile: Medium body, Medium(+) acidity, Medium(+) tannin, Medium alcohol.
What blind-tasting cues distinguish Cabernet Franc?
Documented tells for Cabernet Franc: Look for aromatic lift and herbal edge with medium body. and Confirm tannin is firm but less massive than Cabernet Sauvignon (#1929)..
What is Cabernet Franc most often confused with in blind tasting?
Cabernet Franc is most commonly confused with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Tempranillo. Resolve the call with structure and signature aromas.
Where is Cabernet Franc grown?
Classic regions for Cabernet Franc include Loire Valley, Bordeaux, Friuli and Finger Lakes.