Cabernet Franc expands presence in Argentine wine industry

Cabernet Franc is experiencing significant growth in Argentina, marking a shift in the country's viticultural landscape. While Malbec remains the dominant variety, Cabernet Franc plantings have increased by 131.6% over the last decade, reaching more than 5,000 acres in 2025. Despite this rapid expansion, the variety still accounts for just over 1% of Argentina's total cultivated area.

Winemakers, including Alejandro Vigil of Bodega Catena Zapata, view Cabernet Franc as a precision variety used both as a standalone varietal and as a blending partner for Malbec. Experts suggest that Argentina needs to better showcase its full range of wines beyond its reputation for Malbec to demonstrate its diverse terroir.