Ch. 9: The Wines of France Flashcards
The Sommelier Prep Course: An Introduction to the Wines, Beers, and Spirits of the World Michael Gibson
What are the most important regions in France?
(Hint: There are 6.)
Bordeaux
Burgundy
The Rhone Valley
Champagne
The Loire Valley
Alsace
Who is the #1 producer of Wine in the world?
France
There are 4 classifications defined by AOC laws.
What are they?
Strictest/Highest Quality to Loosest/Lowest Quality.
Appellation d’Origine Controlee
AOC
Vin Delimite de Qualite Superieure
VDQS
Vin de pays
Vin de table
How are top-quality wines in France labeled?
(With the exception of Alsatian wines)
Top quality wines are labeled by the
region where the grapes were grown.
When did the Phylloxera epidemic reach France?
Mid- to late 19th Century
White wine grapes do best in what time of climate?
White grapes do best in
Cooler Climates.
Grapes are less ripe in cooler climates.
Red wine grapes do best in what time of climate?
Red grapes do best in
Warmer Climates.
Grapes are riper in warmer climates.
Ripeness will determine what 3 major characteristics for wine?
Acidity
Body
Alcohol
What are the basic restrictions for AOC regions?
Winemakers are told:
what to plant
how to do it
how/when to harvest
amount to harvest
method to make wine
how to age
Define
Chateau
French word for:
Castle
or
House
Red Bordeaux is often called what in England?
Claret
What are the Top White Grapes in Bordeaux?
Top White Grapes:
Sauvignon Blanc
Semillon
What are the Top Red Grapes in Bordeaux?
Top Red Grapes:
Merlot
Cabernet Sauvignon
