Certified Sommelier Practice Exam

What is the primary grape variety used in Left Bank Bordeaux wines?

1. Chardonnay

2. Cabernet Sauvignon

3. Pinot Noir

4. Malbec

The correct answer is: Cabernet Sauvignon

The primary grape variety used in Left Bank Bordeaux wines is Cabernet Sauvignon. This region, notably the Médoc and Graves areas, is renowned for producing some of the world's most prestigious red wines, with Cabernet Sauvignon being the dominant variety in many of these blends. Cabernet Sauvignon is favored in Left Bank Bordeaux due to its ability to thrive in the region's gravelly soils, which provide excellent drainage and heat retention. The grape is known for its deep color, full body, and structured tannins, which contribute to the ageability and complexity of the wines. Typically, these wines are blended with other varieties, such as Merlot and Cabernet Franc, but Cabernet Sauvignon remains the cornerstone of the blend. In contrast, Chardonnay is primarily associated with white wine production, particularly in regions like Burgundy and Champagne, and does not play a significant role in the red wine profile of the Left Bank. Similarly, Pinot Noir, celebrated in regions such as Burgundy and Oregon, is not a key variety in Bordeaux, while Malbec, although important in some regions like Argentina, is not the leading grape variety in Left Bank Bordeaux wines. These distinctions underscore the unique terroir and varietal preferences of the Bordeaux wine regions.