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Local wine enthusiasts are gearing up as the Tri-Valley welcomes the second annual Cabernet Franc Festival, affectionately known as CabFranc-A-Palooza, to Livermore this weekend.
From Friday to Sunday (May 3-5), The Purple Orchid Wine Country Resort & Spa will host what organizers are calling the “biggest Cabernet Franc festival in the world.” With an expected attendance of 700 attendees, CabFranc-A-Palooza organizers promise a weekend of wine, education and community.
“We’re taking this year’s festival to the next level,” winemaker and festival co-founder Steven Kent Mirassou said in a press release.
“The interest and support from Cab Franc producers and consumers has been incredible. Cab Franc is the most delicious grape in the world and we’re thrilled to be able to take CabFranc-A-Palooza to new heights,” Mirassou added.
The gathering will feature around 50 wineries showcasing their offerings through a series of curated events and tastings.
“This year’s CabFranc-A-Palooza festival is bigger and better than ever before. We’ve expanded our lineup of participating wineries, added more educational seminars and enhanced the overall experience for attendees,” Mirassou told Livermore Vine. “I’m excited to see the growing enthusiasm for Cabernet Franc among both winemakers and wine drinkers.”
“This year we have some exceptional new releases and special bottlings that I feel will really highlight the versatility and elegance of Cabernet Franc,” he added.
Mirassou said he and other event organizers are looking forward to interacting with festival guests.
“I’m eager to engage with our guests, share our passion for this grape and celebrate the community that has formed around it,” Mirassou said. “My hope is that visitors will gain a deeper appreciation for Cabernet Franc and its potential as a standalone varietal. Whether they’re new to the wine or seasoned enthusiasts — I want attendees to leave feeling inspired and empowered to explore Cabernet Franc further.”
Mirassou has been operating the Steven Kent Winery since 1996, but his family has been in the California wine industry since 1854.
“Cabernet Franc holds a special place in my heart for its unique characteristics,” Mirassou said. “I’m drawn to its aromatic complexity, with notes of ripe red fruit, herbs, and spice. I also appreciate its structure and approachability, making it a versatile pairing for a wide range of dishes.”
“Above all, Cabernet Franc has a sense of authenticity and character that resonates with me as a winemaker, and I love sharing that with others through our wines,” he added.
On Friday from 6-8 p.m. guests can join for “Friday Night Blind,” an immersive sensory experience designed to engage the nose and palate. Participants will have the opportunity to engage with winemakers through discussions and Q&A sessions.
Saturday’s “University of Cabernet Franc” from 12-2 p.m. includes a lecture on Cabernet Franc wines from around the world. Visitors will learn about growing climates, winemaker styles, taste nuances and more.
A second event on Saturday called “Francs n’ Franks” takes place from 4-6 p.m.
Organizers will pair Cabernet Franc with select sausages in a collaboration with the Livermore Butcher Shop. The event promises a discussion on food pairings, featuring six homemade sausages crafted to complement each wine selection.
“The Grand Tasting,” will take place on Sunday from 1-4 p.m. Guests will have the opportunity to sample a wide array of Cabernet Franc wines from participating wineries.
“I hope the festival (helps to) fosters connections between guests, winemakers, and industry professionals, creating lasting memories and relationships,” Mirassou said.
Tickets for the CabFranc-A-Palooza are available online at www.cabfrancapalooza.com.