Which grape is among the key red Bordeaux varieties and commonly used in Left Bank blends?

• A. Chardonnay
• B. Pinot Noir
• C. Cabernet Sauvignon
• D. Merlot

Answer: (C)

Cabernet Sauvignon is the backbone of red Bordeaux on the Left Bank. This grape brings the structure, high tannins, deep color, and strong acidity that let blends age gracefully for decades. The Left Bank—think Médoc and Graves—traditionally builds blends around Cabernet Sauvignon, often with smaller amounts of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and sometimes Petit Verdot to add complexity. The soils in these areas, especially well-drained gravel, favor Cabernet Sauvignon’s growth and expression, reinforcing its dominant role in Left Bank blends.

Chardonnay and Pinot Noir aren’t the focus for red Bordeaux. Chardonnay is a white grape used for white Bordeaux styles, while Pinot Noir is more characteristic of Burgundy and not a staple in Bordeaux red blends. Merlot is widely grown in Bordeaux and is central to Right Bank blends, where it adds softness and fruit, but it isn’t the defining grape of Left Bank blends.