Full bodied with moderate acidity, dark fruit, spice characteristics with medium tannins.

• A. Merlot
• B. Malbec
• C. Syrah, Shiraz
• D. Cabernet Sauvignon

Answer: (C)

A wine described as full-bodied with moderate acidity, dark fruit, spice notes, and medium tannins is closely aligned with Syrah/Shiraz. This variety is known for a rich, weighty mouthfeel and enough acidity to keep it balanced, along with deep dark fruit flavors like blackberry or plum. The spice character—think black pepper, clove, and sometimes smoky notes—is a hallmark of Syrah, helping it stand out from other varieties. The tannins are present and contributing structure, but not overpowering, which fits the “medium” tannin description.

Merlot often leans softer in tannins and acidity and shows more plum/cherry fruit with gentler spice. Malbec can be very full-bodied with dark fruit and sometimes pepper, but the classic peppery spice profile isn’t as consistent as with Syrah. Cabernet Sauvignon typically brings higher tannins and acidity and flavors that skew toward cassis, cedar, and tobacco rather than the distinctive spice of Syrah. So the overall combination points most clearly to Syrah/Shiraz.