Cabernet Franc from South Africa

Explore the fascinating elegance of Cabernet Franc from the Cape! Our selection features nearly 60 wines, from single-varietal stars to noble blends.

Wine guide

Cabernet Franc: The Cape's Elegant All-Rounder

Cabernet Franc, one of the noble parents of Cabernet Sauvignon, has carved out an impressive niche for itself in South Africa. Long valued primarily as a reliable partner in Bordeaux blends, more and more winemakers at the Cape are demonstrating the grape's potential as a solo artist. In our range of nearly 60 wines from over 25 wineries, you can discover the full diversity of this fascinating grape.

Style: From Single Varietal to Cuvée

South African Cabernet Franc captivates with its elegance, fine tannin structure, and complex aromatics. Typical notes of raspberry, cherry, and violet are often accompanied by spicy hints of graphite and tobacco. Many of our wines are single-varietal Cabernet Francs that reflect the terroir of their origin. Just as frequently, however, you'll find it as a key component in classic Bordeaux-style blends, where it contributes freshness and aromatic complexity to cuvées with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Malbec. Wineries like Constantia Glen, Lynx, and Holden Manz are among the masters of this grape variety.

Top Growing Areas: Franschhoek, Stellenbosch & Constantia

While Cabernet Franc is grown in many of South Africa's wine regions, a few areas have proven to be particularly outstanding. Franschhoek and Stellenbosch are known for their powerful yet elegant interpretations. The warm, well-drained soils produce wines with ripe fruit and structure. The cooler Constantia region yields particularly delicate and mineral-driven wines, whose finesse is reminiscent of their French counterparts from the Loire Valley.

Perfect Food Pairings

Thanks to its balanced structure and freshness, Cabernet Franc is a versatile food companion. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like lamb or beef, duck breast, or hearty vegetarian dishes with mushrooms and herbs. Cheese platters with medium-strong hard cheeses also harmonize beautifully.

For Every Occasion and Budget

The world of South African Cabernet Franc is accessible to everyone. You'll find great everyday wines starting from around €14. The majority of our selection is in the mid-price range around €30, where you can find complex and age-worthy wines. For special moments, there are also iconic collector's wines that can reach up to the €200 mark.

Frequently asked questions

What's special about Cabernet Franc from South Africa?

South African Cabernet Franc combines the classic elegance of the grape with the fruit intensity of the New World. It is incredibly versatile, shining both as a single-varietal wine and as a key component in world-class blends.

Does Cabernet Franc always taste like bell pepper?

No. The characteristic note of green bell pepper (pyrazine) is present in unripe grapes. However, South African winemakers focus on perfect ripeness, which allows aromas of red fruits, spices, and floral notes to come to the forefront.

What is a Bordeaux-style blend?

A Bordeaux-style blend is a red wine made from a mixture of grape varieties typical of the Bordeaux region in France. These primarily include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec.

What food pairs well with Cabernet Franc?

Cabernet Franc is a great partner for many dishes. It pairs well with grilled meats, lamb chops, duck breast, mushroom risotto, and medium-bodied cheeses. Its herbaceous notes also make it ideal for dishes with rosemary and thyme.

What are the shipping costs at The WineStore?

Shipping to Germany is €6.90, free for orders over €120. To other EU countries, it's between €6.90 and €11.90, free for orders over €150. Shipping to the UK is €11.90 (free over €150), and to Switzerland/Liechtenstein, it's €18.90 (free over €200).