If you have yet to reach for cabernet franc, now’s the time to try the lighter, crisper, and more aromatic cousin to cabernet sauvignon.
Santa Barbara County’s producers are making some wonderful examples, ranging from the lighter, high-acid, and low-alcohol style of France's Loire region, which are among California’s best; to Bordeaux's bigger, more opulent approach, again with a number of top quality wines also being made. No matter what, cab franc should never be too heavy, and it’s quite nice to drink the lighter ones a little on the cool side.
Here are a few worth your attention: