Wines
Cabernet Franc
Wine style and varietal guide
- Red
- Red • Dry
- 12–14% ABV
- Full body
- Dry sweetness
- medium-high acidity
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.
At a Glance
Nutrition values are style-level estimates. Actual values vary by producer and serving size. How we calculate this →
On this page
What is Cabernet Franc?
Taste profile
Sensory profile
- Style: Red
- ABV range: 12–14%
- Full body
- Dry sweetness
Grape & region
- Grape varieties
- Cabernet Franc
- Region(s)
- Loire Valley, Bordeaux, California, Canada
- Country
- France / global
- Sweetness
- Dry
- Skin contact
- Moderate red-wine skin contact
Principal wine regions
A principal grape in Bordeaux, California, Ontario — explore the regions known for it.
How it’s made
- Method
- Red wine made from Cabernet Franc grapes, fermented on skins for colour, savoury aroma and medium tannin; oak use varies by region and producer.
When to serve
Dietary
How Cabernet Franc fits common dietary preferences (general guidance — always check the specific producer).
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-Free
Also known as
About this drink
Cabernet Franc has deep roots in Bordeaux and the Loire Valley and is also a parent of Cabernet Sauvignon. Its history matters because the style often brings red fruit, herbs and freshness rather than the heavier structure people expect from Cabernet Sauvignon.
How to compare
How to compare Cabernet Franc
Compare this wine by tannin, body and food weight first. Firm styles usually work better with richer dishes than with very delicate meals.
When to choose it
When to choose Cabernet Franc
Choose Cabernet Franc when its body, acidity, tannin and sweetness fit the dish. It has 4 structured pairing matches to help compare food options.
Skip if
Skip Cabernet Franc if...
Skip Cabernet Franc if you want a very soft or delicate wine. Firmer tannin usually works better with richer food than with light dishes.
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.
- 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.
Last updated
Wine style information is approximate and varies by producer, region, vintage and serving size.