Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks Editor
RedRed • Dry12–14% ABVFull bodyDry sweetnessmedium-high acidityHigh tannins
Is this for me?
Choose this if…
- ✓You prefer dry, crisp wines without residual sweetness.
- ✓You enjoy firm tannins and structured red wines.
- ✓You want a full-bodied, rich wine to pair with hearty food.
Skip if…
- ✗You prefer sweeter or off-dry wines.
- ✗You prefer smooth, low-tannin or white wines.
- ✗You prefer lighter, more delicate wine styles.
What is Cabernet Franc?
A medium-bodied red wine with herbaceous and bell pepper aromas, high acidity, and moderate tannins. Flavors of red fruits, violet, raspberry, and sometimes pencil lead.
Best For
DinnerSavoury foodRed meatAged cheeseRed
Food Pairings
Taste & Style
Dry sweetnessmedium-high acidityHigh tanninsFull bodyRed FruitHerbalPepperyTannic
Flavour profile
Food pairings
- Charcuterie
- Cheese Board
- Roast Meat
- Steak
Best for
- Best with Charcuterie
- Best with Cheese Board
- Best with Roast Meat
- Red Fruit
- Herbal
Also known as
Cab Franc (common_short_name)
Frequently asked questions
- What is Cabernet Franc?
- A medium-bodied red wine with herbaceous and bell pepper aromas, high acidity, and moderate tannins. Flavors of red fruits, violet, raspberry, and sometimes pencil lead.
- What does Cabernet Franc taste like?
- Cabernet Franc is often described as Red Fruit, Herbal, Peppery, Tannic. Flavour intensity varies by region, producer and vintage.
- What foods pair with Cabernet Franc?
- Cabernet Franc pairs well with Charcuterie, Cheese Board, Roast Meat, Steak. Food pairing suggestions are based on complementary flavour profiles.
- How strong is Cabernet Franc?
- Cabernet Franc typically has an ABV of 12–14%. Strength varies by producer and vintage.
- When should I drink Cabernet Franc?
- Cabernet Franc works well as an aperitif, with a meal, or as a standalone sipping wine. The ideal occasion depends on the body and sweetness level — lighter styles suit casual dining while fuller-bodied wines complement heartier dishes.
- What wines are similar to Cabernet Franc?
- If you enjoy Cabernet Franc, explore other wine styles with a similar body and flavour profile using the sensory bars as a guide. Wines with matching acidity and tannin scores will feel closest in character.
- Does Cabernet Franc improve with age?
- Cellaring potential for Cabernet Franc depends on the producer, vintage and storage conditions. Most everyday expressions are best enjoyed within 3–5 years of release. Premium examples may benefit from longer ageing — check producer notes for guidance.
- What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
- Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Tannin/Bitterness (soft to grippy), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent), Boldness (delicate to bold) and Beginner-Friendly (acquired taste to easy intro). Each scale helps you compare wine styles at a glance.
- How do I use the sensory profile to find wines I like?
- If you enjoy light, crisp wines look for Light Body with Crisp Acidity. For bold, rich wines choose Full Body with Grippy Tannin. Compare Cabernet Franc with similar wine styles to find your next favourite.
Wine style information is approximate and varies by producer, region, vintage and serving size.