Cabernet Franc is the main role playing varietal of Bordeaux and shares qualities similar to Cabernet Sauvignon. This black grape is commonly a key part of the blend in both Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot varietal wines. It produces a full-bodied wine in its own right, with black pepper spice, raspberry fruit, and bell pepper herbaceousness. Cabernet Franc quite often is described as having an aroma similar to pencil shavings. This varietal is very hearty, resistant to vineyard problems, and grows well in a range of climates. It ripens a few weeks earlier than Cabernet Sauvignon, producing small to medium sized clusters that are usually loose. Genetic profiling has revealed that Cabernet Franc, along with Sauvignon Blanc, are the parent grapes of Cabernet Sauvignon.