Which of the following is a classic grape variety used in red Bordeaux blends?
Merlot
Bordeaux reds are typically blends of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and sometimes Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec.
The Classic Red Bordeaux Blend is red, made from a mix of these grapes:
Cabernet Sauvignon – brings structure, tannins, and dark fruit (think blackcurrant/black cherry).
Merlot – adds softness, roundness, and juicy plum notes.
Cabernet Franc – offers elegance, floral aromas, and freshness.
Petit Verdot – adds color, spice, and tannic backbone (used in small amounts).
Malbec – contributes richness and dark berry flavors (used less today in Bordeaux, but still traditional).
Carménère – was once common in Bordeaux but is rare now (still used in blends outside of France, especially Chile).
Most Bordeaux wines are dominated by either Cabernet Sauvignon (Left Bank wines like Médoc, Pauillac, Margaux) or Merlot (Right Bank wines like Saint-Émilion and Pomerol).
Which grape is dominant in the red wines of Bordeaux’s Left Bank?
Cabernet Sauvignon
Bordeaux’s Left Bank (including regions like Médoc and Pauillac) is known for Cabernet Sauvignon-dominant blends. This grape provides structure, high tannins, and flavors of blackcurrant, cedar, and tobacco, often blended with Merlot and other Bordeaux varieties for balance.
Which grape is used to produce Beaujolais wines, including the famous Beaujolais Nouveau?
Gamay
Beaujolais is made from Gamay, a light-bodied, fruity red grape known for its bright acidity and flavors of red berries, banana, and floral notes. The carbonic maceration process used in Beaujolais Nouveau enhances its fresh and juicy character.
Which grape is the backbone of Champagne production?
Chardonnay
While Champagne can be made from three main grapes—Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier—Chardonnay plays a key role, especially in Blanc de Blancs styles. It contributes crisp acidity, elegance, and aging potential to sparkling wines.
Which grape is the primary variety in Brunello di Montalcino, one of Italy’s most prestigious wines?
Sangiovese
Brunello di Montalcino is made entirely from a specific clone of Sangiovese called Sangiovese Grosso. It produces full-bodied wines with high acidity and tannins, featuring flavors of cherry, leather, earth, and spice, and it requires extended aging before release.
Which grape is the key variety in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the famous Rhône Valley red?
Grenache
While Châteauneuf-du-Pape blends multiple grapes, Grenache is usually the dominant variety, providing ripe red fruit, spice, and a full-bodied character. It is often blended with Syrah and Mourvèdre (creating the GSM blend) for complexity and structure.
Which grape is used to produce Germany’s famous Riesling wines?
Riesling
Riesling is Germany’s flagship grape, known for its versatility and ability to range from bone-dry to lusciously sweet. It produces wines with high acidity, floral and citrus notes, and the potential to age beautifully over decades.
