Cabernet Franc has good reasons to win you over
Cabernet Franc went from being almost unknown to the consumer to being on everyone's lips, thanks to a wine profile that few varieties offer.
Every wine trend has its season, although in wine, seasons are longer: planting a vineyard, waiting for it to bear fruit, and developing a style that appeals to consumers takes at least ten or fifteen years. Cabernet Franc was practically unknown to consumers, and today it's on everyone's lips. For some, it's a novelty; for others, a leap in quality in color and flavor compared to other reds; and for still others, a select wine among the greats.
There would be no trend if Franc didn't have something different to offer. Although its apparent origin is the Loire Valley, its fruity character is more pronounced in sunnier regions. Whether in California, Maipo, or Luján de Cuyo, it combines flavors rarely found together: red fruit in the style of blackcurrant, with hints of pyrazines that lend a spicy and smoky touch, and a lively palate, less concentrated than Cabernet Sauvignon, yet never sacrificing its tannic structure.
Compared to Malbec, Franc is almost its antithesis. Malbec offers floral and red fruit notes, with a broad, fleshy, and smooth palate; Franc offers spice and fruit, with a more structured, closed palate and hints of leather. Within the trio it forms with Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, it stands out for its adaptability: its clusters are not very compact and its growing cycle is shorter, so it adapts to a wide range of locations.
The spiciness can range from a simple seasoning to a hint of roasted bell pepper and paprika, depending on the grape's origin. This versatility can be confusing at first, but tasting just a few bottles reveals all it has to offer.
It's also a magnificent variety for blending, although the percentage should be carefully considered, as its personality can be dominant. In a minority blend, alongside Cabernet Sauvignon, it brings to life wines that would otherwise be rather solemn. With a majority of Franc and a touch of Malbec, or vice versa, it forms a very powerful duo that particularly shines in the high-altitude terroirs of Mendoza.