Cabernet Franc, a parent grape to Cabernet Sauvignon, has quite the distinguished background of its own—and an even more intriguing flavor profile. In honor of our latest Cab Franc, 2017 Bentgate, Cabernet Franc, Lodi, we’re taking a closer look at a Cab you might not have met yet, with some Cabernet Franc facts!
Our earthy 2017 Bentgate is a Cabernet Franc from Lodi, California, that features plum, black fruit flavors with notes of pepper corn.
When most of us think of a glass of “Cab”, we automatically assume it is Cabernet Sauvignon, probably the most popular red grape in the world. Cabernet Franc, however, is actually one of Cabernet Sauvignon’s parent grapes, along with Sauvignon Blanc. Cabernet Franc is considered a bit more refined, elegant, and spicy than Cabernet Sauvignon. It also can withstand a cooler climate and ripens earlier than Cabernet Sauvignon.
Cabernet Franc provides soft, silky tannins and a flavor profile of red fruits and berries, such as blueberry, raspberry, and cranberry, and also offers a bit of spice such as black pepper. Cabernet Franc also offers floral notes of violet and earthy notes of tobacco and graphite.
Most commonly known as the supporting grape to Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot in Bordeaux, Cabernet Franc is the super star red varietal of the Loire Valley, producing both reds and rosés.
Cabernet Franc facts with food
Cabernet Franc pairs wonderfully with leaner meats, including leaner cuts of beef and pork. It is also a perfect match with Mediterranean cuisine and spices, as well as BBQ. To highlight the spicy black pepper notes, cooking dishes featuring peppercorns is a natural match. Enjoy Cabernet Franc with your dinner and continue to enjoy right through the evening, paired with a nice dark chocolate dessert!
Discover perfect pairings for Cabernet Franc with Traveling Vineyard Sommology.
Our 2017 Bentgate, Cabernet Franc has the special distinction of being a Lodi wine. Lodi Rules for Sustainable Winegrowing is California’s original sustainable viticulture program. The goal of sustainability is to leave the environment in as good or better condition than it was found for future generations to come. According to the LODI RULES organization, “In agriculture, sustainability means farming in a way that is environmentally and socially responsible while also being economically viable.”
The LODI RULES Standards are the most thoroughly vetted set of sustainability practices in California’s viticulture industry. In order to qualify for certification, a vineyard must meet several criteria and is awarded to an individual vineyard on an annual basis. The “RULES” are a set of over 120 farming standard practices which help farmers manage their vineyards sustainably. The “RULES” are divided into six categories: ecosystem management, water management, soil management, pest management, business management, and human resources. While certified organic farming applies to following a set of rules for farming, certified sustainable farming takes the responsibility a step further by applying to the environment, the people, and the business.
To experience a Lodi wine for yourself, try our 2017 Bentgate, Cabernet Franc, Lodi! Host a tasting to sample this beauty at home with friends or shop our cellar!