What type of wine uses the varietals Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon?

The correct answer is red wine because both Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon are grape varietals that are predominantly used to produce red wines. These varietals thrive in warm climates and possess characteristics that are typical of red wines, such as deep colors and complex flavors that can range from fruity to earthy.

Merlot, known for its soft tannins and fruity notes, is often blended with Cabernet Sauvignon, which typically adds structure and robustness to the blend due to its higher tannin content. Together, they create a rich, balanced wine that is prominent in many regions around the world, including Bordeaux in France where these varietals are classically combined.

White wine, pink wine, and sparkling wine utilize different grape varietals or production methods that do not include Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon as primary components. White wines are made from grapes with lighter skins or can be produced by pressing red grapes quickly to separate the juice from the skins, while pink wines (rosés) often include the short maceration of red grapes to achieve a blush tone. Sparkling wine involves secondary fermentation to produce carbonation, further differentiating it from still red wines made from blended varietals.