Last week, I asked you whether you were a Cabernet Franc fan. According to Ashlee McRae, “Cabernet Franc is the lighter, laid-back, hippie father of the yuppie Cabernet Sauvignon. Its bright in personality, and soft in its embrace.” So, what are some good Cabernet Franc pairings?
Let’s Start by Reviewing Cabernet Franc’s Taste Characteristics
Cabernet Franc is a medium-bodied red wine that is known for its herbaceous bell pepper flavors, medium-high acidity and mouthwatering taste. An Ohio Cabernet Franc maker commented on my blog article last week saying, “In Northern Ohio, we have a cooler climate where Cab Franc does well. When the vines are attended to, Cab Franc is rich and only slightly herbaceous. The best example here can rival any Cab Franc from California. Aromas of violets and sage are typical. Some have compared the taste to a cross between Pinot Noir and Cab Sauvignon.” I asked him how to order his wine. I can’t wait to try it.
TheWineCellarInsider.com goes on to say that Cab Franc is not as fleshy as Merlot and has less tannic structure than Cabernet Sauvignon. “This deeply colored, thin skinned berry offers floral, plum, blackberry, cassis, spice and fresh herb or leafy aromas and flavors when ripe.”
So, what are goes well with Cabernet Franc?
Cabernet Franc Pairings
Cabernet Franc is a great food pairing wine. It pairs well with earthy dishes made with wild game and lamb. Olives, feta and preserved lemon have rustic earthy flavors that are a perfect match with this unique wine. It also pairs well with vinegar-based sauces, tomato-based dishes, and rich legumes. It’s a perfect pairing with dishes featuring fresh herbs.
Cabernet Franc Pairings from WineandFoodPairings.net
WineandFoodPairings.net recommends these wonderful-sounding dishes:
- Rigatoni with summer squash, spicy sausage and goat cheese
- Rib steak over arugula salad
- Chanterelle mushroom and herb omelet
- Lamb stew
- Red lentil soup
- Portobello mushrooms
I’d love to hear about your successful Cabernet Franc food pairings.
As an independent wine consultant with WineShop At Home, I absolutely enjoy bringing a taste of the Napa wine country home to you one sip at a time. Whether you simply love to drink wine, seek a special personalized wine gift, or are in search of a new wine jobs opportunity as a wine consultant, feel free to contact me for a truly unique wine tasting experience! Cheers, Betty Kaufman
WineShop At Home
