Enobytes Wine Blog

Gary Vaynerchuk, who runs the infamous Wine Library TV is hosting this month’s WBW and our theme is interestingly enough, French Cabernet Franc, a variety always waiting in the wings to take over the infamous Cabernet Sauvignon.

Photo credit: The Wine Web

Like most wine regions of France, Roman conquerors originally developed the Loire valley before Monks stepped in and took over its culture. By far, France has the most Cabernet Franc plantings of any wine producing region in the world, most of which resides in the St. Emilion, Loire Valley and south west France, where Cabernet Franc is also known as Bouchet, Bouchy, or Breton.

Unfortunately, Cabernet Franc is one of those misunderstood grapes; it’s quite a mystery for some; others shun it and some, well, simply ignore it. Regrettably, it does not get the recognition it deserves. I have a particular fondness for its perfumed nose and charming flavors, which inspire the fine and silky reds of the middle Loire.

The profile of Cabernet Franc can very greatly based on vineyard practices, however, most of the Francs I’ve tasted lean towards the fruity and herbaceous style showing flavors of raspberries, violets and plums with nuances of spice. I was hoping my selection would live up to its reputation.

To my surprise, the 2006 Domaine de la Fruitière Vin de pays Les jardins de la Placeliere from the Loire region faired reasonably well. The Domaine, located in Château Thébaud just a few miles southeast of Nantes, sits in the Pays Nantais winegrowing zone – an exemplary oceanic region known for producing lighter bodied, highly acidic wines. Their Vin de pays Les jardins de la Placeliere is a new line for them producing three wines which include a Chardonnay,

a Cabernet Franc and a Florilege, which is a blend of Melon, Chardonnay, Folle Blanche and a Sauvignon Gris. Of note, all of their fields at Domaine de la Fruitière are Terra Vitis approved which employs organic, sustainable viticultural practices overseen by a federation that maintains compliance.

What made this selection unique is that it is 100% Cabernet Franc not to mention it is organically grown. Its a good representation of the region, which produces a lighter bodied style. It’s a charmer but you’ll need patience since it takes a moment to warm up to you. Upon opening, funky aromas reminiscent of heavy stainless steel and rum barrel overpower the nose. Shortly thereafter, the wine came into its own element showing aromas of cherry and plum with flavors consisting of violet, strawberry and caramel touched with a hint of earthiness; its well-rounded, finishing with a slightly pungent, dry finish.

I can’t say this was the best Cab Franc I’ve ever tasted, but it definitely reminds me of why I love the auspiciously aromatic and fruity characteristics Cabernet Franc has to offer; and considering its $10 price-point, you can’t go wrong. On the other hand, Marc tasted this wine as well and disagrees with my opinion. Let’s just say he didn’t like it and we will leave it at that!