Member and possibly the founder of the Carmenet ampelographic family, Cabernet Franc is originally from the Basque part of the Pyrenees, and some people believe that it stems from the ancient Biturica varietal. Its medium clusters are made up of small, dark berries that produce refined wine with a relatively good structure. It is less tannic and colourful than Cabernet Sauvignon, but it matures earlier and is suitable for cooler areas. In Madiran, they call this grape Bouchy (or Bouchet in the Libourne commune). In the Basque country’s Irouléguy, it is known as Acheria.

Source: Vins du Sud-Ouest de la France