Cabernet Franc
Cabernet franc is one of the parent grapes of cabernet sauvignon. Cabernet sauvignon was created by crossing cabernet franc and sauvignon blanc. This union of one white grape and one lighter bodied red grape created the full bodied cabernet sauvignon. Cabernet sauvignon has only been around for about one hundred and twenty-five years, but cabernet franc has been around for centuries.
Cabernet franc is one of the five official Bordeaux varieties, along with merlot, petit verdot, malbec, and cabernet sauvignon. Although grown throughout Bordeaux, the area known as the “right bank” is where cabernet franc struts its stuff. These right bank merlot blends are believed to be some of the best red wines in the world. Names like Château Cheval Blanc and Château Pétrus both contain the herbaceous, fragrant, less acidic, less tannic cabernet franc.
Those of us who have watched the movie Sideways will recall the main character,
Miles criticizes two grape varieties, merlot and cabernet franc.

Ironically, the prized bottle of wine he has cherished and preserved, and eventually drinks at a fast food restaurant out of a paper cup, is made up of merlot and cabernet franc.
Cabernet franc is generally used as a secondary grape, paired up with merlot or cabernet sauvignon. Since it is harvested early, many winemakers believe growing cabernet franc along side cabernet sauvignon is a failsafe against losing a vintage to bad weather.
Cabernet franc is very similar in flavor and structure to cabernet sauvignon, but there are some distinct differences. Cabernet franc's nose is more aromatic than cabernet sauvignon, with distinctive notes of violets, roses, spiced plums, and fresh herbs. On the palate, the herbaceous and floral qualities continue, while the wine offers white pepper and other ground spices. Cabernet franc is lingers on the finish much longer than cabernet sauvignon.
Americans are usually focused on wines made from a single variety, which is why blends do not do well in our market. In a sea of single variety bottles, you can still find many blends that include cabernet franc. Cabernet franc is a welcome addition in any red blend. Bordeaux Rouge from the right bank area of Saint Emilion contain cabernet franc. Australians and producers in California have been adding a splash of cabernet franc to their cabernet sauvignon blends.
Recognizing cabernet franc in a blend can assure you more value for your money. Studying cabernet franc in single variety offerings can be a great change of pace, while allowing you to gain an understanding of the graceful character of this grape.
Case Discounts
Libations Wine & Spirits offers 10% discount on all cases of wine mix or match.
Join us most Wednesdays to sample wine, beer, and spirits in-store, at no charge.
Every Wednesday from 4:30pm to 7:00pm we pour samples for you.
Join us on selected Fridays too.
Upcoming Tasting Events
March 18, 2009
Pinot Party Week!
O'Reilly's Pinot Gris, Oregon - $15.29
Montoya Pinot Noir, California - $12.99
90 points California State Fair
French Maid, France - $10.99
Permutation, Australia - $13.99
March 25, 2009
South American Vacation for Spring Break!
New Age White Blend, Argentina - $11.99
Altos Las Hormigas Malbec, Argentina - $11.49
89 point
Wine Advocate
Amato Sur Malbec/Syrah/Bonarda, Mendoza, Argentina - $14.99
Layer Cake Malbec, Argentina - $16.29
Friday, March 27th, 2009
Fullers Beers and a surprise to taste!
ESB 6pack $11.79
London Pride 6 pack $11.79
London Porter 6 pack $11.79
1845 bomber $4.39
April 1, 2009
Spring Break in Spain!
Fuente Elvira Verdejo - $12.69
90 points
International Wine Cellar
Don Ramon Granacha/Tempranillo - $9.99
El Arte d Vivir Ribera del Duero - $13.99
90 points
International Wine Cellar
Pablo Menguante Granacha - $11.59
89 points
Wine Advocate
April 8, 2009
Easter feast recommendations!
BR Cohn Carneros Chardonnay, California - $20.99
La Playa Cabernet Sauvignon Rose, Chile - $9.49
Boom Boom Syrah, Washington State - $18.49
Mumm Napa Blanc de Noir Sparkling, California - $19.99
89 point
Wine Enthusiast
SPECIAL PRICING DURING TASTING HOURS
Wednesday tasting hours are 4:30 to 7:00 pm.
Each sample is a one ounce portion to adults 21 and older.
Limit four different samples per person.
Libations Wine and Spirits is a full service liquor store serving
Aurora, Parker, Centennial, and Littleton, Colorado.
Libations has a comprehensive wine inventory, award winning beer selections,
all of your favorite spirits and few unusual items as well.
Whether you are driving from the DTC, (Denver Tech Center), downtown Denver, Parker,
or Eagle Bend, Libations is on your way home.
We are located in Southeast Aurora, near Cherry Creek Reservoir, at Arapahoe Crossings.
Our staff are knowledgeable about wine, beer, liqueurs, and spirits, and are
always eager to serve you.
You must be 21 years or older to shop at Libations Wine & Spirits.
Libations Wine & Spirits
Arapahoe & Parker Roads
Northeast corner at Arapahoe Crossings
6554 South Parker Road, Aurora, Colorado 80016
Monday - Saturday, 10am to 10pm
Sunday from 11am to 6pm
Phone: 303-766-0575
info@libationswines.com
libationswines.com
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