Cabernet Franc vs Cabernet Sauvignon

Andrew Will Winery and Seattle Distillery joined forces to host a very successful father’s day event. Both the 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon from Mays Discovery Vineyard and the 2011 Cabernet Franc “Black Label” from the Columbia Valley were poured. One question that came up frequently was “What is the difference between Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon?”. I did some research and found some very descriptions on the Washington State Wine Commission website. 

• Cab Sauv: The king of the red grapes grows magnificently in Washington. The heady, fruity character of this complex grape develops slowly. In its youth, the wine appears more subtle and restrained than Washington Merlots. Its character can emerge as black currants, cherry, berry, chocolate, leather, mint, herbs, bell pepper or any combination of these. This wine ages beautifully. Frequently, several years of bottle aging are needed for the wine to show at its best. Many of the state’s vintners employ traditional blending practices, adding Merlot or Cabernet Franc to the wine.
• Cab Franc: Long considered primarily a blending grape, Cabernet Franc has recently captured the attention of Washington’s winemakers. A hardy grape, Cabernet Franc has been of primary value for the sturdy core and firm tannins it adds to softer wines. On its own, it offers delicious, spicy notes with mellow coffee and intense blueberry fruit. Washington vineyard acreage devoted to Cabernet Franc has grown six-fold in the past few years.