Cabernet Sauvignon vs Cabernet Franc
Cabernet Sauvignon
A firmly tannic black grape with blackcurrant at its core, central to the Médoc in Bordeaux and strongly associated with Napa Valley.
- Blackcurrant
- Firm tannin
- Deep color
Recognize it
Firm, drying tannin and full body define the structure. Blackcurrant is the classic fruit marker, with leafy or bell-pepper notes more common in cooler sites or vintages.
Cabernet Franc
A medium-bodied black grape of raspberry and a leafy green edge, and the principal red grape of Chinon and Bourgueil in the Loire.
- Raspberry
- Leafy edge
- Medium tannin
Recognize it
Medium body and medium tannin with red fruit leading black fruit. Raspberry, red currant and leafy or bell-pepper notes are common. Green character is usually more noticeable in cooler sites or vintages.
How they compare
- SimilarRed and black fruit with a leafy edge.
- DifferenceCabernet Franc is lighter-bodied, gentler in tannin and more floral.
- SimilarCassis and leafy notes.
- DifferenceCabernet Sauvignon is darker, fuller and much more tannic.