Cabernet Franc vs. Cabernet Sauvignon

There’s nothing in the world like a good glass of Napa Cabernet. Rich, bold, and beautifully balanced, it’s clear from just a few sips why over three million people flock to Napa each year to experience it for themselves. However, a debate has been sparked in recent years: a battle of Cabernet Franc vs. Cabernet Sauvignon.

What is the difference between the two wines? And perhaps more importantly—which is the superior choice?

Cabernet Sauvignon vs. Cabernet Franc—which is better? Read on to discover everything you need to know about the two wines to decide for yourself once and for all.

Cabernet Franc vs. Cabernet Sauvignon

Casual wine drinkers might not realize that not all Cabernets are created equal. There are significant differences between different types of wine that set them apart. So what makes Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon unique?

What Is Cabernet Franc?

It can be argued that Cabernet Franc is one of the most underrated wines. Though it’s often overshadowed by the ever-iconic Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc is a true great in its own right.

One of the five major grape varieties in Bordeaux, Cabernet Franc is exceptional on its own or used as a blending component. It features notes of wild berry, peppers, and warm nuts, with herbal undertones.

Highly acidic, Cabernet Franc pairs well with complex spices and rich meats while also complementing more vegetable-heavy dishes. A great Cabernet Franc can age for decades, growing more and more savory with time.

What Is Cabernet Sauvignon?

You don’t have to be a wine aficionado to know about the magic of Cabernet Sauvignon. A Bordeaux blend of Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc, possibly no other wine is more well known or highly renowned than Cabernet Sauvignon.

Rich, bold, and savory, Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the finest red wines on the market. Dry and full-bodied, with high tannins, its gorgeously intense flavor features berry, cherry, plum, and oak. When someone says that something ages like a fine wine, Cabernet Sauvignon is probably what they have in mind—these wines develop gloriously complex flavors with age. While younger Cabernet Sauvignons lean more fruity, deeper notes of spice, graphite, and leather come out over the years.

Cabernet Sauvignon is known as the ideal wine to pair with red meat or deeply savory dishes. Spicy foods, deep sauces, or rich cheeses also pair nicely with this iconic red wine.

Similarities Between Cabernet Franc & Cabernet Sauvignon

As Cabernet Franc is a key component of Cabernet Sauvignon, the two wines share many similarities. Both are darkly colored red wines that feature deep notes of dark fruits. They also both pair well with rich, savory foods.

However, there are many differences between the two wines. Keep reading for everything that you need to know.

Differences Between Cabernet Franc & Cabernet Sauvignon

While Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon are both well-regarded red wines, there are many differences between the two that set them apart.

As we’ve already discussed, Cabernet Sauvignon stems from the crossing of Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc. By default that means that Cabernet Franc must pre-date Cabernet Sauvignon. Cabernet Franc is not as often thought of as a wine to be enjoyed on its own—it’s more often used in blends—but we’re excited to note that this is beginning to shift as wine enthusiasts are starting to enjoy Cabernet Franc for its own merits.

Cabernet Sauvignon thrives in warmer climates, which is why it does so well when grown in Napa. Cabernet Franc grapes, on the other hand, tend to do better in a slightly cooler environment. Cabernet Franc grapes also tend to be thinner-skinned, while the thick-skinned grapes of Cabernet Sauvignon contribute to the depth of the wine’s color.

Cabernet Sauvignon is the more tannic of the two wines, and is also the more full-bodied wine—Cabernet Franc is known as a medium-bodied wine. Cabernet Franc has a lighter, softer taste that is more gentle than the traditionally deep and bold Cabernet Sauvignon. Cabernet Franc is creamier and spicier, while Cabernet Sauvignon is more robust.

Think of Cabernet Franc as the softer, more approachable wingman to Cabernet Sauvignon. Both wines have an incredible flavor—it’s simply a matter of how bold you want to go.

Why Napa Is Ideal for Cabernet Franc & Cabernet Sauvignon

Both Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon thrive here in Napa. Here’s why.

Climate

The Mediterranean climate of Napa Valley is ideal for growing both Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. While Cabernet Sauvignon is certainly the one of the two that is most inclined toward the warm weather of Napa, Napa’s temperate versatility lends to Cabernet Franc equally well.

Soil

Cabernets do best when grown in rocky soil with good drainage. Born from the gravelly soils of Bordeaux, they shine when given room to breathe. Luckily, this distinct soil type can be found in Napa Valley, lending both Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon to grow well.

FAQs

Still curious? Here are a few of the most common questions we receive about Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Where can I find the best Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon in Napa?

At Davis Estates, we specialize in bringing world-class Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon to you. Explore our wide selection of wines, or come by our tasting room to sample them for yourself and discover your new favorite.

Where do Cabernets originate?

Cabernet wines—specifically Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon—originate in France, namely the Bordeaux region. Over time, they were brought to Napa Valley, where many of the world’s best Cabernets are now produced.

Which wine ages better, Cabernet Franc or Cabernet Sauvignon?

A good bottle of either Cabernet Franc or Cabernet Sauvignon can age beautifully, but of the two, most tend to age Cabernet Sauvignon longer. Who accepts the challenge to age their Cabernet Franc?

Experience the Best Napa Cabernets at Davis Estates

At Davis Estates, we’re passionate about crafting wines that reflect the beauty of Napa Valley while still capturing the richness of their origin. Our Cabernets are a testament to our pursuit of quality and regard for tradition, and we can’t wait to share our exclusive wines with you.

No visit to Napa is complete without a trip to . Enjoy leisurely sophistication and world-class excellence at Davis Estates. Experience the trip of a lifetime and come share a bottle with us.