This vine is known in many parts of Europe - it is grown in France as Franconier Noir, in Germany as Lemberger, and in Austria as Blaufraenkischer; Blue Franconian is the most frequently used English term. In Slovenia, Modra Frankinja is considered undemanding, although it will bear more on sunnier sites: it will grow well on almost any soil. The grapes ripen moderately late, and the yield is regular and plentiful. The berries are small, dark blue, and contain a pleasant sweet-dry juice.
The wine has a strong, rich red colour with a bluish tinge. Modra Frankinja produces a full-bodied wine with great character, fruity-dry, pithy, and spicy; the bouquet approaches that of Modri Pinot, although the Frankinja is in no way related to the Pinots. Alcohol content is medium; the acids are moderate but may be harsh in young wine of medium vintage. Modra Frankinja is mostly blended with other wines - the humble Modra Portugalka in particular tends to moderate the harshness of the Frankinja's acids. Frankinja is an essential ingredient of both Cviček and Metliška Črnina. It is, however, also marketed on its own and appreciated by those who seek the qualities of Modri Pinot in a heavier setting. Frankinja ages well and reaches its peak after four to six years.
The best varietal Modra Frankinja comes from the Šmarje-Virštajn and Bela Krajina areas of Posavje.
Modra Frankinja should be served at 18 °C (64.4 °F) with rich stewed meat, roasts with heavy sauces, or game.