Beaujolais - WSET L3 in Wines

Question 1

What is the primary grape variety in Beaujolais?

Answer 1

Gamay.

Question 2

What is the climate of Beaujolais?

Answer 2

Similar to the southern Mâconnais, with a moderate continental climate ideal for early-ripening Gamay.

Question 3

What is the traditional pruning method in Beaujolais?

Answer 3

Gobelet, where vines are pruned to spurs around the head and shoots are tied together vertically.

Question 4

How do granite soils affect wine quality in Beaujolais?

Answer 4

They limit yields and concentrate flavors, producing higher-quality wines.

Question 5

What are the three levels in the Beaujolais appellation hierarchy?

Answer 5

Beaujolais, Beaujolais Villages, and Beaujolais Crus.

Question 6

What is Beaujolais Nouveau?

Answer 6

A wine made for early drinking, released on the third Thursday of November after the vintage.

Question 7

What are the rules for selling Beaujolais Nouveau?

Answer 7

It must be sold by August 31 of the year following the vintage.

Question 8

What is carbonic maceration?

Answer 8

A winemaking technique where whole grape clusters ferment in a CO₂-rich environment, producing fruity and aromatic wines.

Question 9

How do Beaujolais wines made with carbonic maceration taste?

Answer 9

Light-bodied with aromas of kirsch, banana, and cinnamon spice.

Question 10

How does semi-carbonic maceration differ from carbonic maceration?

Answer 10

Semi-carbonic relies on natural fermentation at the bottom of the tank, producing brighter fruit and finer tannins.

Question 11

How many Beaujolais Crus are there?

Answer 11

Ten.

Question 12

Name two lighter, perfumed Beaujolais Crus.

Answer 12

Brouilly and Fleurie.

Question 13

What are the characteristics of wines from Morgon?

Answer 13

Structured with black fruit and potential for aging.

Question 14

What is unique about Moulin-à-Vent wines?

Answer 14

hey are among the most structured Beaujolais wines, with firm tannins and aging potential.

Question 15

What distinguishes Beaujolais Villages wines?

Answer 15

Made from grapes grown in 39 designated villages, often with more concentration and complexity than basic Beaujolais.

Question 16

How are Beaujolais Villages wines typically blended?

Answer 16

From grapes or wines sourced from different villages.

Question 17

What are the soils like in Beaujolais Villages and Crus?

Answer 17

Predominantly granite, promoting quality by limiting nutrients and yield.

Question 18

What role do rolling hills play in Beaujolais vineyards?

Answer 18

Provide better sunlight exposure and drainage for higher-quality grapes.

Question 19

How are Gamay wines typically aged in Beaujolais?

Answer 19

Many undergo minimal oak aging, while some crus may see time in large vats or old oak.

Question 20

What is the preferred serving temperature for lighter Beaujolais wines?

Answer 20

Lightly chilled.

Question 21

Why is mechanization increasing in Beaujolais vineyards?

Answer 21

Training vines along wires facilitates machine harvesting and reduces labor costs.

Question 22

What is the main flavor profile of Gamay wines from Beaujolais?

Answer 22

Raspberry, cherry, and red berry fruit with medium tannins and body.

Question 23

Why is the Saône River significant in Beaujolais?

Answer 23

Its alluvial plains are home to vineyards producing basic Beaujolais wines.

Question 24

What is the typical style of Beaujolais Nouveau?

Answer 24

Light, fruity, and made for immediate consumption.

Question 25

How do Beaujolais Crus differ from Beaujolais and Beaujolais Villages?

Answer 25

Crus are individual appellations with distinct styles, offering the highest quality wines.