13 Must-Try American Cabernet Francs to Elevate Your Wine Collection

Cabernet Franc has transitioned from being a hidden gem among wine enthusiasts to a diverse favorite for a growing number of consumers. Praised for its bright red fruit flavor, herbal aromatics, and savory spice, this varietal offers a food-friendly profile that complements various dishes without overwhelming the palate. Particularly suited for warm weather, it can be savored slightly chilled, making it an excellent choice for summer outings as well as formal dinners.

This shift in consumer interest aligns with broader trends where drinkers seek lighter, versatile wines. As beverage choices evolve, campaigns like New York’s Cab France Forward are actively promoting this varietal, attracting attention and curiosity among wine lovers.

After tasting over 40 different Cabernet Francs from various American wine regions, we’ve curated a selection of 13 distinct wines worth trying:

• Baily Winery (California): Known for its peppery flavors, the 2021 Cabernet Franc offers a unique balance of fruit and spice, with key notes of cracked black pepper and jalapeño, establishing its distinct varietal character.

• Barrel Oak Winery (Virginia): The winery’s 2022 offering combines rich blackberry and cherry flavors with subtle spice and smoke, creating a well-structured wine that shows great potential.

• Boundary Breaks (New York): This 2024 release highlights its fruit-forward nature with cherry flavors that provide an accessible and crisp drinking experience. Best enjoyed chilled alongside appetizers or light dishes.

• Corey Creek Tap Room (New York): Marin Brennan’s innovative White Cabernet Franc, known for its fruity and herbaceous profile, is ideal for warm days paired with grilled foods or cheeses.

• Cor Cellars (Washington): The fresh and vibrant 2023 Cabernet Franc possesses an herbal character intertwined with red fruit, offering refreshing acidity and a lively finish.

• Early Mountain Vineyards (Virginia): The Quaker Run 2021 presents layered aromas of red fruit and black pepper, delivering an elegant palate with refined tannins.

• Kalasi Cellars (Texas): Their 2022 Cabernet Franc exhibits a lighter, herb-driven style with notes of mint and bell pepper, perfect for casual meals.

• Lamoreaux Landing (New York): This 2023 T23 display harmonizes vibrant fruit with herbal nuances and fine tannins, creating a versatile wine.

• Milea Estate Vineyards (New York): The 2023 Reserve offers an elegant structure with dark fruit and spice, showcasing the potential of age-worthy Cabernet Franc.

• Macari Vineyards (New York): The 2022 Cabernet Franc provides an approachable blend of red fruit and herbal notes, enhanced by light spices.

• Monte de Oro (California): This 2021 selection emphasizes earthier flavors, including dried berries and cedar, a solid pairing for hearty meals.

• Paumanok Vineyards (New York): Their 2023 release impresses with floral and fruit-forward aromatics, appealing to those who enjoy full-bodied, aromatic reds.

• Wölffer Estate Vineyard (New York): The textbook 2023 Cabernet Franc is rich with dark fruit, earthiness, and a balancing minerality, making it an ideal companion for a variety of dishes.

Overall, Cabernet Franc is gaining recognition as a versatile wine that enhances food experiences, firmly establishing itself among the favorites for both new and seasoned wine enthusiasts.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!