What is the largest vineyard acreage black grape variety in Bordeaux after Merlot?

Cabernet Sauvignon is indeed the largest vineyard acreage black grape variety in Bordeaux after Merlot. This variety thrives in Bordeaux's diverse terroirs, particularly in the Left Bank regions such as the Médoc. It is renowned for its ability to produce wines with depth, structure, and aging potential, often characterized by flavors of dark fruits, cedar, and spice.

Cabernet Sauvignon plays a key role in the classic Bordeaux blends, where it usually complements Merlot with its tannins and acidity, enhancing the overall complexity of the wine. The grape's adaptability to various soils and microclimates across Bordeaux contributes to its widespread cultivation, making it the next most planted black grape variety following Merlot.

Others, such as Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Petit Verdot, while significant to the Bordeaux region and used in blending, do not match the vineyard acreage of Cabernet Sauvignon, which firmly establishes its second position in the hierarchy of Bordeaux grape varieties.