Cabernet Franc

the variety is rather homogeneous, the differences are just about the production potential, which can vary even quite significantly. The expanded bud apex, whitish-green in colour, is tinged with red-bronze reflections. The leaves are medium-sized, pentagonal, three- or five-lobed, with a narrow lyre-shaped petiolar sinus, frequently presenting a tooth; they are slightly tomentose underside. The medium-sized, cylindrical-conical cluster is moderately compact. The medium-small, spheroidal berry has a thick skin, the flesh is juicy with herbaceous taste.

this quite vigorous vine has a semi-upright growth habit. It prefers clayey-calcareous soils, but it can give good results even in sandy or loose soils, provided there is no water stress.

it prefers long pruning, but in hot and dry environments it can be conveniently be spur pruned. it prefers long pruning, but in hot and dry environments it can be conveniently be spur pruned.

average, with regard to botrytis and Esca disease. Susceptible to leafhoppers and Eutypa dieback.

this vine produces wines of good quality, with a high sugar content, good structure and polyphenol content. Normally blended with Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon; on its own, it has a slightly herbaceous flavour that wanes with ageing.

Cabernet Franc VCR10, VCR2, VCR4, ISVFV4, ISV101, ISVSAVARDO7, ISVSAVARDO8; French clones: Inra-Entav 210, 212, 214.