Cabernet Franc / Petit Verdot

Cabernet Franc is one varietal of higher quality and reputation grown worldwide. It is very similar to Cabernet Sauvignon, but ripens at least one week before. This feature allows it to thrive in climates slightly cooler. Cab Franc is very aromatic and is also rich in tannins and colour that make it very suitable for parenting a blend. Petit Verdot is also one of the traditional classic black grape varieties used for blending in Bordeaux. Winemakers generally use the Petit Verdot grapes as chefs would use seasoning. The “spice box” contribution this grape adds to wine is dense fruit, dark colour, black fruit flavours, and heavy tannins. By blending these two powerful wines we have reached a very elegant full body wine with balanced acidity, noted for their minerality and depth of colour among its notes of spicy, raspberry, cassis and violets.

Food Pairings: Cab Franc/Petit Verdot Blend pairs well with BBQ lamb chops, pork spare ribs, duck and other rich meats. Hearty casseroles and mature cheeses will also match well.

Sauvignon Blanc / Chardonnay

Sauvignon Blanc/Chardonnay from California is a blend of two grape varieties that traditionally produced two very different styles of wine. Chardonnay being rich, round and buttery. While Sauvignon Blanc is more fresh, aromatic and zingy. Somewhat surprising then, this non-traditional blend is produced almost as widely as the varieties plantings. It crops up in France (particularly Cheverny), various parts of Italy, Spain, Israel, California Australia, Chile and South Africa, with a wide range of results.

Food Pairings: Rabbit and pistachio terrine, Smoked Salmon, Sushi, and oven baked Salmon are but a few pairings with are unique blend.

This Month’s Featured Recipes

Pair this month’s wine specials and other Vin Bon wines with the following meals