Merlot 101

Is Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon considered a dry red wine?

I have a beef recipe that calls for a " dry red wine". I have Cabernet Sauvignon and a bottle of Merlot on hand.Are either of these o.k. to use or what other red wine is recommended? Thanks.

Public Comments

1. Either of those will do fine. Cabernet is a drier wine, usually, but they vary.
2. Yes both of those are dry red wines, Zinfandel and Pinot Noir are also dry.
3. the names just refer to the grapes; sweetness or dryness will vary from one wine to the other. but since you're cooking with it, i'd say use the cab. i almost never cook with merlot.