(Winemag) - Cali Cab and Chardonnay are holding strong in the spotlight, but winemakers continue to innovate and experiment with different grapes. Here are seven other varieties that should be on your radar.

Cabernet Franc

Cab Franc has never played a starring role in California. That’s too bad, as it can be beautiful in the right hands. There are rumblings of increased interest and attention to it, though. With nearly 1,200 acres planted, Napa is leading the charge. There, it’s often blended into Cabernet Sauvignon to produce violet aromatics and Old World herbaceousness. Look for varietal bottlings with coffee and chocolate balanced by fruit from die-hard Cabernet Franc aficionados Lang & Reed, Crocker & Starr, La Jota, Chappellet, Ashes & Diamonds and Corison. —Virginie Boone