Loire ValleyCabernet Franc is the softer, more aromatic parent of Cabernet Sauvignon, giving lighter-colored wines with gentler tannins — the mouth-drying grip from grape skins — and a smoother feel. It's known for a distinctive savory, herbal edge (think green bell pepper or leafy tobacco) layered over raspberry and violet fruit, and can be bottled on its own (especially in France's Loire Valley) or blended into Bordeaux-style reds.
Also known as Bouchet, Breton.
Primary flavors
Blackcurrant Green bell pepper Raspberry Violet
Styles
Bold red Light red
Lineage
Cabernet Sauvignon is a crossing of Cabernet Franc.
Carmenère is a crossing of Cabernet Franc.
Merlot is a crossing of Cabernet Franc.
Grown in
Loire Valley
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