Cabernet Franc
Grape variety from the Loire Valley
Cabernet Franc, the soul of Saumur-Champigny wines
A historic grape variety from the Loire Valley
Cabernet Franc is the emblematic grape variety of the Loire Valley and today occupies nearly 14,000 hectares in the Loire vineyards.
Its presence in the region dates back to the 11th century: already cultivated by the monks and winegrowers of the time, it gradually established itself as one of the great red grape varieties of the Loire Valley.
Over the centuries, it has found in these tuffeau landscapes, with a climate tempered by the Loire, a privileged ground for expression where it reveals all its finesse and character.
A grape variety at the heart of the appellation
The dominant grape variety of Saumur-Champigny
In the Saumur-Champigny appellation area, Cabernet Franc overwhelmingly dominates the grape varieties used to produce red and rosé wines, representing more than 95% of the grapes used. It thus constitutes the soul of the wines produced in this territory.
Within the Saumur-Champigny appellation, it occupies precisely 1,412 hectares according to the 2023 harvest figures, confirming its central role in the identity of the vineyard.
A grape variety adapted to limestone soils
From an agronomic point of view, Cabernet Franc is distinguished by its medium budburst period. It generally offers yields between 40 and 60 hectolitres per hectare cultivated, a level of production that allows winegrowers to reconcile vine balance and grape quality.
Well adapted to the limestone soils and climatic conditions of the region, it expresses itself particularly well on the tuffeau terroirs that characterize the Saumur region.
The role of the winemaker in its expression
Cultivation practices and winemaking
Vine management and the winemaker's choices also play a decisive role in the expression of Cabernet Franc.
Depending on cultivation practices, grape maturity management, and winemaking methods, this grape variety can reveal different facets of its character.
The winemakers of Saumur-Champigny thus seek to preserve the natural freshness of cabernet franc while enhancing the diversity of the appellation's terroirs.
Initial experiments in the vineyards
Some winegrowers are conducting trials this winter and spring by introducing Solognote sheep to their vineyards to maintain the vegetation cover between the rows of vines. The benefits will be visible from the beginning of spring.
The profile of Cabernet Franc wines
Aromas and aromatic expression
From an organoleptic point of view, cabernet franc gives rise to wines recognized for their freshness, elegance and great aromatic finesse.
In their youth, they often reveal aromas of fresh red fruits such as raspberry, redcurrant, cherry, to which delicate floral notes, such as violet, may be added.
Depending on the terroir and the ripeness of the grapes, spicier or vegetal nuances, reminiscent of pepper or aromatic herbs, may also appear.
Evolution and storage potential
Over time, the wines develop more complex aromas of ripe fruit and sometimes spices. Their structure is generally based on fine, silky tannins, accompanied by a lovely freshness that gives them balance and aging potential.
A territory marker
In Saumur-Champigny, cabernet franc is not just a grape variety: it is a true marker of territory.
Explore the Saumur-Champigny terroir
Saumur-Champigny is the result of a unique balance between a grape variety, a soil and a river.
Cabernet Franc, tuffeau, Loire, biodiversity and the commitment of the winemakers together make up the identity of the vineyard and shape the character of the wines of the appellation.
Discover the elements that contribute to the expression and uniqueness of Saumur-Champigny wines.
Freestone
Tuffeau, a limestone typical of the Saumur region, shapes the landscapes, the vineyard soils and contributes to the balance of the wines.
Loire
The last great wild river in Europe, the Loire influences the climate of the vineyard and contributes to the natural balance of the terroir.
biodiversity
For many years, the winegrowers of the appellation have been committed to preserving biodiversity and promoting the natural balance of the vineyard.
ongoing projects
Experimentation with new grape varieties, naturalist studies or vitipastoralism: discover the actions taken today to prepare the viticulture of tomorrow.
