Cabernet Franc Day

As we slide into the Holiday season, it’s important to remember other celebrations besides Thanksgiving, Christmas, Chanukkah, and Kwanza.  One of my favorites is Cabernet Franc Day, where the parent of both Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon is celebrated.

For my money, Cab Franc is at its best in France’s Loire Valley, in a stretch from Saumur to Chinon, called the Middle Loire, where chalky limestone soils, a temperate climate, and gentle winemaking techniques combine to make brisk, chillable, and versatile reds.  

Cabernet Franc ripens earlier than Cab Sauv, making the cooler climate of the middle Loire a perfect growing spot. Cabernet Franc is lighter than Cabernet Sauvignon, making a bright red wine that contributes finesse and lends a peppery perfume to blends with more robust grapes. Depending on the growing region and style of wine, additional aromas can include tobacco, raspberry, bell pepper, cassis, and violets.

How to celebrate?  Buy a bottle of Loire Cab Franc from Farmstead, chill it down for 45 minutes or so.  Open, drink, relax.