Cabernet Franc is grape of French origin that is the parent of Cabernet Sauvignon. Cabernet Franc is used as a blending grape in Bordeaux and as a single varietal in the Loire Valley. Cabernet Franc wines tend to be a little less tannic and a little softer with more red fruit character than Cabernet Sauvignon. Cabernet Franc wines also tend to have some earthiness and often some vegetal character which can be either pleasing or off-putting depending on the skill of the winemaker and/or the tastes of the consumer. In the Foothills, Cabernet Franc is proving to have a very distinctive style. It is perhaps not for everyone, but for those that enjoy it, these wines can be quite a treat.