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Cabernet Franc is, of course, one of the great red wine varieities of France where it is used in varying amounts in traditional Bordeaux blends. It is one of the primary components of the famous Chateau Cheval Blanc cuvee' and is also widely grown in the Loire Valley where it is often vinfied into a single varietal wine. The east coast has seen a wide planting of this grape due to the fact that it ripens very well here, survives our cold winters well and produces delicious wines. These typically are wines that have characteristics described as a combination of berry fruit, green pepper, violet and rose petal, with medium tannins and good acidity. We have noticed that our Cab Franc has matured and changed as the our vines age. Each year our vines (first planted in 2000) develop more distinct varietal character as they are influenced by our climate and soils. We are very pleased with the wine it produces often blending it with Chambourcin to make our "Rainy Day Red" blend. Like Viognier, Cabernet Franc has been hailed by some as a possible signature variety for the mid-Atlantic states. We can see why, because it has done very well for us and shows even greater promise for the future. |