Cabernet Franc

**Cabernet Franc** is a red grape grown in both Bordeaux and the Loire Valley, and is one of the parent grapes of Cabernet Sauvignon. It ripens earlier than its offspring and brings perfume and freshness to blends. **In the glass** — medium ruby in colour, with aromas of raspberry, bell pepper, graphite and violet; the palate is medium bodied with lively acidity and moderate, fine-grained tannin. **Where it grows** — in Bordeaux it is a supporting player alongside Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, while in the Loire's Chinon and Bourgueil it makes vibrant, savoury varietal reds; it also succeeds in Italy, California and Argentina, showing riper fruit in warmer climates. **At the table** — pairs well with roast vegetables, charcuterie and grilled meats. **Cellaring** — enjoyable young, though structured examples reward several years of ageing.

Wines

• (Michel Gendrier) Cheverny Envol — Domaine des Huards
• 188º SW — Gamache Vintners
• 5 Finques Reserva — Perelada
• 96 Cedars Red — Auclair Winery
• Alpha M — Montes
• Amelia Cabernet Sauvignon - Merlot — Wantirna Estate
• Amy's — Moss Wood
• Applause First Standing Ovation — Frogtown
• Applause Third Standing Ovation — Frogtown
• Arcane — Château de Fosse-Sèche
• Arcilla Cabernet Franc — Cru
• Argentiera — Argentiera
• Aria di Caiarossa — Caiarossa
• Attila — Gere
• Awatea Cabernets - Merlot — Te Mata Estate
• Awatea Merlot/Cabernet — Te Mata Estate
• Ballinderry — Clonakilla
• Bangarang — Domaine Mosse
• Barrail des Moulins — Château La Fleur Chevrol
• Bergerac — Terre des Gendres