A special niche

First introduced into the Loire and Bordeaux wine regions of France in the 17th century under the direction of Cardinal Richelieu, cabernet franc was more often referred to by the name of “Bouchet” until the latter half of the 18th century. Along with sauvignon Blanc, it is famous as one of the parents of cabernet sauvignon (verified in 1997 by DNA evidence).

One of the five main red grape varietals grown and blended within the Bordeaux region, cabernet franc is akin to the mouse that roars. One of only four wines to achieve the rank of Premier Grand Cru Classé in Saint-Emillion, Château Cheval Blanc is made primarily from cabernet franc grapes. (This vineyard is located almost cheek-by-jowl to the superb wine, Château Petrus, made exclusively from merlot grapes.) And, while grown as a back-up for cabernet sauvignon in Bordeaux, cabernet franc produces sumptuous wines in the Chinon, Anjou and Saumur regions of the Loire Valley.

Suitable for cool climate cultivation, cabernet franc is very adaptable to various regions and soil types. It is currently the most chosen varietal for planting in China, Kazakhstan, North and South America, Australia and New Zealand. Washington State produces wonderfully inviting wines made from cabernet franc fruit, as does Ontario and Prince Edward County.

I have tracked this varietal for several years through many wineries in the County, and realize cabernet franc is carving a special niche when conditions allow it to fully ripen—and when, of course, the winemaker allows the grapes to express themselves to their full potential.

THIS WEEK’S PICK
This week, I enjoyed two delightful treats. The first was a Sparkling Pinot Gris crafted by the Harwood Estate team. This North Beach sparkling wine is a glass of fun from the first sip as the bubbles tease your nose until the flavours play upon your palate. Definitely a summer delight to savour “just because.” This sparkling treat retails for $18 and can be purchased at their tasting room located on Loyalist Parkway just west of Hillier.

Sandbanks recently released its 2015 Reserve Chardonnay that will attract a loyal following. The wine was barrel-aged in American Oak, which imparts a pleasing nutty vanilla nuance yet allows the flavours of almond and caramelized pineapple to shine. This is a wellconstructed wine that demands to be paired with food. It retails for $19.95 and can be purchased at their tasting room located on Loyalist Parkway just west of Wellington.