Why Cabernet Franc...

A love letter to the grape that started it all.

Since launching Cab Franc Chronicles a little over five and a half years ago, the question I get asked most is: Why Cabernet Franc? It’s a logical question - with so much to explore in the world of wine, why devote yourself to just one grape? My relationship with Cabernet Franc began when I started my wine career nearly twenty years ago. It was love at first sip - and that love has only grown stronger. So, I chose one. One singular, ancient, humble grape that I’ve been obsessed with my whole career - a grape that never seemed to get the love, attention, and respect it deserves.

So then, why Cabernet Franc?

Well, to me, you are perfect.

You are resilient. For over two thousand years, you have quietly woven your way through the world of wine, subtly rooting yourself everywhere, surviving and thriving when others have fallen out of favour.

You are adaptable, malleable, flexible. You embrace the cold and you retain your composure when things get a little hot. Whatever the season, whatever the situation, you deliver your best - serious and contemplative, cheerful and friendly, or something in between.

You are the ultimate team player. You work well with others and never demand to be the center of attention. You put in the work, though sometimes no one would even know you were there. But, I guarantee you, they would miss you if you were gone.

You thrive independently. You are never compelled to be in the spotlight - though when given the chance to speak up, you are always grateful for the opportunity to express yourself, which you do modestly and respectfully.

You are down to earth and approachable. You are equally at home curled up on the couch with a good book as you are engaged in lively conversation at a dinner party. You know how to meet people where they’re at, and you do so without pretence or agenda.

You are candid and sensitive. You are keenly aware of your surroundings, and when you are rooted in the right place, those that care about you will know. You are as honest a grape as there ever was.

You can be a bit shy and guarded. It’s in your nature. You need to know you’re in good hands. A little time can do wonders, and when you’re ready to come out of your shell, the reward is companionship and loyalty.

You can be spicy, quirky, and, at times, a little green and unruly - but that’s part of your charm. You are perfect in your imperfections.

You know your way around the kitchen. Convivial and generous, you have a gift for the table, effortlessly enhancing everything around you, but never stealing the show.

You are my comfort, my joy, my endless source of inspiration. You challenge me - in the best way possible. Wherever you are, I am home.

Your future is bright. People are starting to take notice of your virtues. And I, like the passionate souls far and wide who have become enchanted by your beauty, personality and complexity, will continue to champion you - in your image, steadfastly and humbly - so that others can begin to appreciate the many gifts you bring to the world.

Because some relationships are for life.

Cabernet Franc, je t’aime plus que tout.