Which grape varieties dominate red Bordeaux blends?

Which grape varieties dominate red Bordeaux blends?

• A. Merlot and Malbec
• B. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot
• C. Cabernet Franc and Malbec
• D. Pinot Noir and Gamay

Answer: (B)

Red Bordeaux blends are built around a backbone of two grape varieties. Cabernet Sauvignon provides structure with high tannins, crisp acidity, and aging potential, while Merlot adds fruit, body, and a softer, more approachable texture. This combination is the hallmark of many classic Left Bank wines, where Cabernet Sauvignon tends to be the dominant component and Merlot supports it to balance tannins and weight. There are other varieties like Cabernet Franc or Petit Verdot that appear in some blends, and Malbec has a historical role in Bordeaux, but they are not the standard dominant pairing. Pinot Noir and Gamay come from other regions entirely, not Bordeaux. So the best description of the dominant red Bordeaux blends is Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

Red Bordeaux blends are built around a backbone of two grape varieties. Cabernet Sauvignon provides structure with high tannins, crisp acidity, and aging potential, while Merlot adds fruit, body, and a softer, more approachable texture. This combination is the hallmark of many classic Left Bank wines, where Cabernet Sauvignon tends to be the dominant component and Merlot supports it to balance tannins and weight. There are other varieties like Cabernet Franc or Petit Verdot that appear in some blends, and Malbec has a historical role in Bordeaux, but they are not the standard dominant pairing. Pinot Noir and Gamay come from other regions entirely, not Bordeaux. So the best description of the dominant red Bordeaux blends is Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.