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Cabernet Sauvignon vs Merlot

How to tell them apart in a blind tasting

The clearest separator between Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot is tannin: Cabernet Sauvignon is High while Merlot is Medium. Lead with that to resolve the blind call.

Step 02

Cabernet Sauvignon vs Merlot

Compare structure side by side, then resolve the close-call with the right separator.

Primary separator

Cabernet Sauvignon leans cassis, firmer tannin, and cedar length; Merlot leans plum-led fruit, softer tannin, and rounder mid-palate.

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Aroma Markers

Cabernet Sauvignon more likely markers

  • blackcurrant
  • cassis
  • cedar

Merlot more likely markers

  • black cherry
  • chocolate
  • plum

Decision Cues

Most useful separators

  • Cabernet Sauvignon leans cassis, firmer tannin, and cedar length; Merlot leans plum-led fruit, softer tannin, and rounder mid-palate.

High-signal differences

  • Acidity: Cabernet Sauvignon slightly higher (Medium(+) vs Medium).
  • Tannin: Cabernet Sauvignon much higher (High vs Medium).
  • Body: Cabernet Sauvignon slightly higher (Full vs Medium(+)).
Structure fingerprint
Cabernet SauvignonMerlot
Acidity
Tannin
Body
Alcohol
Color intensity
Aromatic intensity

Reference context

Shared classic regions

  • Napa Valley

Cabernet Sauvignon

Classic regions:

  • Bordeaux
  • Coonawarra
  • Maipo

Style examples:

  • Left Bank Bordeaux
  • Cabernet-led Bordeaux blend
  • Structured oak-aged varietal red

Merlot

Classic regions:

  • Pomerol
  • Saint-Emilion
  • Ticino

Style examples:

  • Right Bank Bordeaux
  • Plush right-bank blend component
  • Rounded oak-aged varietal red

Common questions

How do you tell Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot apart in a blind tasting?

The clearest separator between Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot is tannin: Cabernet Sauvignon is High while Merlot is Medium. Lead with that to resolve the blind call.

Is Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot higher in tannin?

On the WSET ladder, Cabernet Sauvignon is High and Merlot is Medium for tannin.

Are Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot red or white?

Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are both red grape varieties.

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