Which of the following is a principal red grape variety featured in the WSET Level 1 Award in Wines?

Cabernet Sauvignon is indeed one of the principal red grape varieties covered in the WSET Level 1 Award in Wines due to its widespread recognition and importance in wine production around the world. This grape is known for its deep color, high tannin content, and ability to produce full-bodied wines with complex flavors, which include blackcurrant, cedar, and green bell pepper notes. Its adaptability to various climates and soils has made it a staple in many wine regions, including Bordeaux in France, Napa Valley in California, and many others globally. Understanding Cabernet Sauvignon provides a strong foundation for wine study, as it leads to insight into wine styles, aging potential, and food pairings.

While Malbec, Tempranillo, and Zinfandel are also significant red grape varieties and contribute distinct profiles to wines, they are not prioritized in the same way for foundational learning in the Level 1 curriculum. Each of those grapes presents its own characteristics and regional importance, making them valuable in their right, but Cabernet Sauvignon is specifically highlighted as a principal variety in the program.