Cabernet Franc, often overshadowed by its famous relative Cabernet Sauvignon, is finally receiving the attention it deserves among wine enthusiasts and Napa Valley vintners. This versatile grape is making its way from being a mere component of Bordeaux blends to taking center stage in the wine industry. With its exceptional characteristics and increasing popularity, Cabernet Franc is carving its own path in the wine world.
Cabernet Franc’s rise in popularity is not merely a passing trend. Wine writer Kristy Wenz describes it as “eminently drinkable,” thanks to its freshness, vibrant acidity, and ability to pair well with various foods. Its range of flavors, from lush dark fruits to brambly red fruits with green pepper notes, offers a diverse tasting experience. Winemaking styles and geographical factors further contribute to the vast array of expressions found in Cabernet Franc wines.
Remarkably, Cabernet Franc is also a practical choice for vineyards. Unlike its more demanding counterpart, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc requires a shorter growing season, making it more reliable in cooler vintages. This resilience ensures availability during early harvests when weather and fire smoke pose threats. Moreover, the growing concern about climate change and the dangers of smoke taint have made early ripening varieties like Cabernet Franc highly desirable.
Winemakers from around the world have started crafting exceptional single-expression Cabernet Franc wines. Regions such as Tuscany, Hungary, Languedoc, South Africa, Argentina, California, and Washington are now recognized for their exemplary renditions of this grape. The distinctiveness of Cabernet Franc initially attracted winemaker Chris Carpenter, who has championed the use of some of Napa Valley’s oldest Cabernet Franc plantings at La Jota Vineyard Co.
These historic vines, originating from 1976 when Bill Smith acquired La Jota Vineyard, have thrived throughout the years. Protected by being planted on St. George rootstock instead of the common AXR choice, these vines escaped the destruction of the phylloxera epidemic. Today, their age contributes to consistent growth patterns, ripening curves, and concentrated flavors that reflect the true character of the variety.
Carpenter highlights that Cabernet Franc appeals to wine drinkers seeking varietal expression and choices across different grape varieties. He draws an analogy between Cabernet Franc and the bands Nirvana and Foo Fighters, both distinctive yet similar, with one deriving from the other. In this case, Cabernet Sauvignon is a cross of Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc.
The increasing popularity of Cabernet Franc signifies a positive shift towards diversity in the wine industry. Its unique qualities set it apart from other profiles, making it increasingly appealing to consumers and winemakers alike. As a grape that originated in Bordeaux and the Loire Valley, Cabernet Franc brings a unique expression that enriches the wine experience. Carpenter even suggests that experienced wine drinkers might argue Cabernet Franc stands shoulder to shoulder with the greatest Cabernet Sauvignon wines, citing Cheval Blanc as a prime example.
As consumers express a desire for unique and authentic flavors, winemakers like Carpenter and Matt Sands recognize the growing thirst for Cabernet Franc. Sands, winemaker at Lithology, believes there is untapped potential in underserved grape varieties growing in Napa Valley. He is committed to showcasing the tremendous potential of Cabernet Franc as a substantial staple in Napa Valley.
Sands, known for his work with Cabernet Franc, emphasizes the unique qualities of wines sourced from renowned vineyards like Beckstoffer To Kalon and Beckstoffer Dr. Crane. These wines showcase dominant floral aromas, including violets, lavender, and wildflowers. Sands’ Lithology Beckstoffer Dr. Crane Cabernet Franc stands out for its innovative single-variety presentation from this esteemed vineyard.
While Cabernet Sauvignon remains a regional leader, exploring other grape varieties, like Cabernet Franc, allows winegrowers to express themselves creatively. It enables them to discover what works best in their vineyards and share fascinating discoveries with high-quality wine enthusiasts. This exploration pushes the boundaries of what Napa Valley is traditionally known for and unearths its full potential.
Despite the challenges in promoting varied grapes and wine styles, winemakers like Sands believe that Cabernet Franc deserves recognition and celebration. By striving for excellence and investing in Cabernet Franc, these winemakers are paving the way for a more diverse Napa Valley wine experience. As curiosity continues to drive consumer interest, coupled with winegrowers’ dedication, the popularity of Cabernet Franc is bound to grow even bigger.
Cabernet Franc’s stealthy rise in popularity signifies a turning point in the wine industry. This versatile grape is stepping out from the shadow of Cabernet Sauvignon and proving its worth in the vineyard and in wine glasses worldwide. Its unique characteristics, diverse expressions, and ability to captivate wine enthusiasts make Cabernet Franc an undeniable force in the wine world.
Leave a Reply