Question

The Malbec grape, originally grown in France, has become the main varietal in Argentina. This is surprising because most Malbec grown in Argentina is grown at high altitudes, whereas the Malbec grape once was grown at low altitudes. Therefore, Argentinian winegrowers should grow the Malbec grape at low elevations. Which of the following, if true, would most weaken the conclusion of the argument?A) The Bordeaux grape is the most popular grape in France but is rarely, if ever, grown in Argentina.B) Some varietals are unable to grow at high altitudes.C) The soil at high altitudes is filled with nutrients that help many of Argentina’s varietals flourish.D) The Malbec vine is susceptible to phylloxera, a plant louse that only grows at low altitudes.E) Malbec has recently enjoyed a surge in popularity, and can be found in many different countries.

Answer 1

.D) The Malbec vine is susceptible to phylloxera, a plant louse that only grows at low altitudes.

Step-by-step explanation:

What weakens the conclusion that Argentinian winegrowers should grow the Malbec grape at low elevations is a statement that discourages or gives reasons why they cannot grow it on low elevations.

From the options, option A is out of point, the question is on Malbec grape and not Bordeaux.

Option B is wrong because it does not specify if Malbec grape is unable to grow in high altitude, it is vague

Option C is also wrong because soils in high altitude having nutrients that will help Malbec grape flourish does not mean soils in low altitude are lacking in these nutrients also.

Option D is correct because the presence of phylloxera in low altitude could be the reason for the restriction of Malbec cultivation to higher altitudes in Argentina.