Cave Spring Cabernet Franc 2024 Wine Review

Natalie's Score: 91/100

The Cave Spring Estate Grown Cabernet Franc from the Beamsville Bench, Niagara Escarpment V.Q.A. is a sustainably farmed, unfiltered estate red grown in mineral-rich limestone and shale soils, opening with an expressive nose of ripe dark cherry, roasted red pepper and a lift of dried violet, while the medium-to-full-bodied palate delivers concentrated flavors of black plum, sun-dried cranberry and a savory thread of wild herbs, all framed by polished, well-integrated tannins and a long, fresh finish. It is bone dry and beautifully balanced, so serve it slightly below room temperature and enjoy now through 2032. Current winemaker Gabe Demarco, who collaborates with Brock University on viticulture research including rootstock and clone development, recently pioneered the first concrete vessel crafted from the leftover scree of a nearby Niagara quarry, a wonderfully local innovation that adds a distinctive textural richness to his white wines. Cave Spring holds the distinction of being the first winery in Ontario to earn Sustainable Winegrowing Ontario certification for both its vineyards and cellars, a milestone that reflects the founding vision of Len Pennacchetti and veteran winemaker Angelo Pavan, who were among the earliest champions of European vinifera varieties in Canada when they planted Riesling and Chardonnay on the Escarpment back in 1978. Pour it alongside a hearty pasta Bolognese with a generous handful of Parmigiano, where the wine's dark fruit and earthy depth mirror the richness of the slow-cooked meat sauce, or serve it with a roasted guinea hen stuffed with mushrooms, garlic and fresh thyme for an elegant pairing where the wine's savory herb notes weave seamlessly through every bite.

Cabernet Franc food pairings: pasta with Bolognese sauce, mushroom risotto, coq au vin, roasted guinea hen or game birds, steak tartar, hearty beef stews.

Magnificent Meat Pizza Wine

This Cave Spring Cabernet Franc 2024 was reviewed on March 21, 2026 by Natalie MacLean

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Please note that our reviews are based on a variety of sources: samples sent to our team, those we purchase in store, tasting events, those tasted in restaurants and while traveling domestically and internationally.

Recipes for Cave Spring Cabernet Franc 2024

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