Cabernet franc vs Merlot

Compare Cabernet franc and Merlot: profile, average rating, producing countries and number of wines. The guide to choosing between these two grapes.

Winedexer > The grape varieties > Cabernet franc vs Merlot
Cabernet francMerlot
Colournoirnoir
Number of wines4611381120
Average rating3.73 / 53.66 / 5
Producing countriesFrance, United States, Italy, Argentina, CanadaFrance, Italy, United States, Spain, Chile

Cabernet franc

Supple, fragrant reds with fine tannins and vibrant freshness, showing raspberry, violet, green pepper, pencil lead and gentle spice aromas. Star of the Loire as a single variety (Chinon, Bourgueil, Saumur-Champigny) and of the right bank of Bordeaux in blends (Cheval Blanc at 60%). Also in semi-dry Anjou rosés. A historic Bordeaux variety, parent of Cabernet-Sauvignon, Merlot and Carmenère.

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Merlot

Round and fleshy reds with a velvety texture, showing aromas of ripe plum, black cherry, cocoa and truffle notes with age. Supple tannins, generous alcohol, indulgent finish. Pillar of Libournais (Pomerol with Pétrus, Saint-Émilion with Cheval Blanc and Ausone) and signature of Super Tuscans, Italian Wales and Washington State. A cross of Cabernet Franc × Magdeleine Noire, France's most planted red variety.

Discover the grape variety Merlot