Cabernet Franc: the rising star of the Uco Valley
Once a blending afterthought, now the variety serious winemakers are most excited about — high-altitude, aromatic and precise. Argentina's “new prince.”
If Malbec is the king of Argentine wine, Cabernet Franc is the prince that the court has only recently noticed. A decade ago it was a minor blending grape, used to add a little lift to Malbec. Today, in the cool, high vineyards of the Uco Valley, it is the variety that has serious winemakers most excited — and a growing number of them quietly believe it may capture the soul of these mountains even better than Malbec does.
What's inside
01Why Cabernet Franc matters
A grape with royal blood — a parent of Cabernet Sauvignon — Cabernet Franc is quietly becoming one of Argentina's most exciting reds.
Read Step 1 →The Argentine style
Cabernet Franc's freshness and savoury, herbal side make it wonderfully food-friendly — and Argentina's altitude suits it beautifully.
Read Step 2 →Tasting
This is a red built on tension and perfume rather than weight.
Read Step 3 →Pairings
Catch it in the Uco Valley.
Read Step 4 →The best from Uco
The list of champions is a roll-call of the Uco Valley's most respected names.
Read Step 5 →Quick answers
Is Cabernet Franc good in Argentina?
Increasingly, yes — it is one of the most talked-about grapes in Argentine wine. In the high-altitude Uco Valley especially, it produces aromatic, fresh, elegant reds, and many winemakers consider it the country's most exciting red variety after Malbec.
Where is Cabernet Franc grown in Argentina?
Mostly in Mendoza, with the cool, high Uco Valley (and its Gualtallary district in Tupungato) seen as the best terroir. It is also planted in the warmer, lower Luján de Cuyo, where it makes a richer, fuller style.
What does Argentine Cabernet Franc taste like?
Expect red fruit and violet aromas, a savory note of roasted red pepper and herbs, and a graphite or “wet stone” minerality from high-altitude sites. It is medium-bodied with fresh acidity and silky, refined tannins.
How is Cabernet Franc different from Malbec?
Cabernet Franc is generally lighter, more aromatic and more savory than Malbec, with higher natural acidity and a more herbal, mineral character. Malbec tends to be richer and more fruit-forward, while Franc leans toward elegance and freshness.
What food pairs with Cabernet Franc?
It pairs beautifully with grilled red peppers and vegetables, herb-crusted lamb, mushrooms and lighter grilled meats. Its acidity and savory profile suit herb- and vegetable-driven dishes, and it can be served slightly chilled.