Cabernet Franc is a black grape variety that originated in Bordeaux and is most commonly blended with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. It produces deeply coloured wines with medium tannins and typically exhibits black fruit, tobacco and vegetal notes.

Some of the most highly regarded Cabernet Franc-based wines are produced in the Bordeaux villages of Pomerol and St Émilion. Cheval Blanc, a Premier Grand Cru Classé A estate, is around 70% Cabernet Franc, whilst Ausone is half Cabernet Franc and half Merlot. The grape also thrives in the Loire Valley, New Zealand and Italy.

Closer to home, a number of leading winemakers have begun bottling single-varietal Cabernet Franc wines. Bruwer Raats is undoubtedly one of South Africa’s foremost Cabernet Franc producers, offering award-winning wines that display the red fruits and purity that few others have been able to achieve in SA.