Cabernet Franc is a red wine grape known for its aromatic finesse, medium body, and vibrant acidity, often recognized as one of the parent grapes of Cabernet Sauvignon. It thrives in cooler climates and is widely planted in France’s Loire Valley, where it produces elegant, food-friendly wines with notes of red berries, herbs, graphite, and sometimes a signature peppery edge. In Bordeaux, it plays a key role in Right Bank blends, particularly in Saint-Émilion and Pomerol, contributing aromatic lift and complexity alongside Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Cabernet Franc has also found success in Italy, Canada, and parts of the United States, particularly in cooler pockets like the Finger Lakes and Washington State. Its earlier ripening and adaptability make it a favorite among winemakers seeking a balance of freshness, structure, and nuanced flavor.