Comparing Cabernet Franc from France, Virginia, and California plus pairings!

Since 2015, December 4 has been recognized as Cabernet Franc Day. Why? The man credited with bringing Cabernet Franc vines from Bordeaux to the Loire Valley and planting them at the Abbey of Bourgueil, Cardinal Richelieu, died on December 4, 1642, and so the powers that be (aka Lori Budd) decided that it was the best day. In the Loire Valley, Cabernet Franc became a stand alone wine instead of just being part of the blend like in Bordeaux. Today Cabernet Franc is among the 20 most planted wine grapes and grown around the world. In character, Cabernet Franc is similar to cabernet sauvignon, but lighter, more peppery, and much more herbal with notes of bell pepper and green bean. No surprise: DNA evidence shows Cabernet Franc crossed with Sauvignon Blanc to become Cabernet Sauvignon.

So pop a cork of Cab Franc — still, rose, or sparkling– and toast Cardinal Richelieu!

To honor the memory and accomplishments of  Cardinal Richelieu, each year Sue and I gather different Cabernet Franc wines or cab franc blends from different regions of the world. Continue reading →