Cabernet Franc is one of the major red grape varieties of the world. It is mostly grown for blending with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot in the Bordeaux style, but can also be vinified alone, such as the Chinon wine from the Loire. It is made into ice wine in Canada and the United States. Cabernet Franc is lighter than Cabernet Sauvignon (of which it is a parent),[1] contributing finesse and a peppery perfume to blends with more robust grapes. Depending on growing region and the style of wine, additional aromas can include tobacco, raspberry, and cassis, sometimes even violets. The Cabernet Franc wine's color is bright pale red. [2] There are records of Cabernet Franc in Bordeaux going back to the end of the 18th century and it was planted in Loire long before that. Recent DNA research has shown that Cabernet Sauvignon is the result of a cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc.[3] Cabernet Franc is believed to have originated in the Libournais region of southwest France. It is believed that Cardinal Richelieu, sometime in the 17th century, transported cuttings of the vine to the Loire Valley where it was planted at the Abbey of St-Nicolas-de-Bourgueil under the care of an abbot named Breton, from which the popular synonym of the grape derived from. By the 18th century, plantings of Cabernet Franc (then known as Bouchet) were found throughout Fronsac, Pomerol and St-Emilion, making wines that garner reputations for their high quality. As Cabernet Sauvignon became more popular in the 18th & 19th century, the close similarity of the two grapes was observed and theories emerged as to the extent of the relationship. In 1997 DNA evidence emerged to show that Cabernet Franc crossed with Sauvignon blanc to produce Cabernet Sauvignon. Note: April/May - Chilean Grapes from Chile are Seasonal and are available every year from Rubino's in 18lb boxes. We are one of the few suppliers for Chilean Grape and Juice. Fabulous wines are being produced from home wine makers and we are happy to supply our wine makers with one of the finest grapes available today for our new and existing customers. CALL TO RESERVE YOUR ORDER TODAY 609-261-8420!!!