The upper end of Right Bank reds (Saint-Émilion) is known for which type of blends?

• A. Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated blends
• B. Malbec-dominated blends
• C. Petit Verdot-dominated blends
• D. Merlot-dominated blends

Answer: (D)

The main idea is that the Right Bank, and Saint-Émilion in particular, produces the most prestigious wines as Merlot-dominated blends. Merlot thrives in the region’s clay-limestone soils and warmer microclimates, ripening fully to yield a plush, fruit-forward profile with a smooth texture. In top wines from this area, Merlot forms the backbone, while Cabernet Franc is typically added to provide structure, aroma, and aging potential rather than to overpower the fruit. This contrasts with the Left Bank, where Cabernet Sauvignon dominates due to gravelly soils and a climate that favors more tannic, age-worthy profiles. Malbec or Petit Verdot may appear in small amounts, but they don’t define the upper-tier Saint-Émilion blends. So the upper end of Right Bank reds is best described as Merlot-dominated blends.