Cool Climate Whites Flashcards
What happens to sugar as grapes ripen?
Sugar increases as grapes ripen
This increase in sugar is a critical factor in determining the overall quality of the wine.
What is the relationship between sugar and acid during ripening?
Sugar increases while acid decreases
This relationship affects the balance of flavor in the final wine product.
Flavor development happens at the same rate as sugar. True or False?
False
Flavor development can occur at different rates compared to sugar accumulation.
Fermentation converts sugar to _______ and _______.
alcohol and carbon dioxide
This conversion is a key process in winemaking.
What is the relationship between Sugar at harvest and Residual Sugar?
Higher sugar at harvest can lead to higher residual sugar
Residual sugar impacts the sweetness of the finished wine.
What is the natural form of acid in grapes?
Tartaric acid
Tartaric acid is the primary acid found in grapes and is important for wine stability.
Malolactic Conversion converts _______ acid to _______ acid.
malic acid and tartaric acid to lactic acid
This process softens the acidity of the wine and adds complexity to its flavor profile.
What is the Winkler Index?
A framework for understanding the climate of a wine region
Developed in 1944 by Professors Amerine and Winkler at UC Davis.
How many categories does the Winkler Index use to group wine regions?
Five categories
The categories are based on theoretical growing days.
Which grape cultivars are associated with cool regions?
Riesling, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir
These varietals thrive in cooler climates.
What grape cultivars are typically grown in warm regions?
Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Merlot, Grenache
These varietals prefer warmer climates.
What geographical factors contribute to a cool climate?
Latitude, topography, distance from coast
Examples include regions like Mosel, Germany.
True or False: The topography does not affect climate in wine regions.
False
Topography, such as mountains and elevation, significantly impacts climate.
Fill in the blank: The proximity to the _______ can influence a region’s climate.
poles
Which country is mentioned as having a cool climate due to its geography?
Germany
Example: Mosel region.
List two wine regions located in Australia that are considered cool climates.
Tasmania, Adelaide Hills
These regions have cooler growing conditions.
What is the significance of elevation in determining a cool climate?
It can create cooler temperatures and microclimates
Higher elevations often lead to cooler growing conditions.
Which region in New Zealand is noted for its cool climate?
Central Otago
Known for producing high-quality wines.
What are natural features that can moderate a cool climate?
Bodies of water, elevation/aspect, mountains, long days with high number of daylight hours
Bodies of water include rivers, coasts, inland seas, and large lakes.
What role do bodies of water play in climate moderation?
They help to moderate temperatures and influence local weather patterns
Examples include rivers, coasts, inland seas, and large lakes.
What does elevation/aspect refer to in climate moderation?
Planting to face the sun or positioning above the fog line
This can affect sunlight exposure and temperature.
How do mountains contribute to climate moderation?
They create rain shadows and provide protection from major winds
This can result in varying climatic conditions on either side of a mountain range.
What is a characteristic of regions classified as ‘cool climate’ for wine production?
They have a baseline cool climate regardless of winemaker intentions
Winemakers focus on achieving ripening rather than slowing it down.
In cool climate wine regions, what is a primary concern for winemakers?
Achieving ripening of grapes
This contrasts with warmer regions where the focus may be on restraint.
Fill in the blank: _______ can moderate a cool climate by influencing temperature and weather patterns.
Bodies of water
True or False: Elevation and aspect are irrelevant in moderating cool climates.
False
What is the climate like in the Loire Valley?
Cool climate
The cool climate of the Loire Valley contributes to the unique characteristics of its wines.
Which grape varieties are commonly grown in the Anjou-Saumur region?
- Chenin Blanc
- Cabernet Franc
These varieties are well-suited to the region’s climate and soil.
What grape is primarily associated with the Pays Nantais?
Melon de Bourgogne
This grape is known for producing Muscadet, a popular white wine from the region.
What grape varieties are prominent in the Touraine region?
- Chenin Blanc
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Cabernet Franc
These varieties thrive in the diverse terroirs of Touraine.
Which grape is primarily used in the Centre-Loire?
Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc from this region is highly regarded for its quality and expression.
What is the significance of the town of Sancerre?
Famous for Sauvignon Blanc
Sancerre is a key wine-producing area in the Centre-Loire known for its distinctive Sauvignon Blanc.
Which grape variety is commonly used in the production of Vouvray?
Chenin Blanc
Vouvray wines can range from dry to sweet and are made exclusively from Chenin Blanc.
Fill in the blank: The grape variety Cabernet Franc is especially notable in the _______ region.
Touraine
Cabernet Franc is a key varietal in this region, contributing to its red wine profile.
Which regions are included in the Loire Valley?
- Orléans
- Nantes
- Angers
- Blois
- Tours
These towns are significant for their contributions to the Loire Valley’s wine culture.
True or False: Gamay is a prominent grape variety in the Loire Valley.
False
Gamay is not one of the main varieties in the Loire Valley; it is more associated with Beaujolais.
What are the typical structural components of cool climate wines?
- Sugar
- Acid
- Alcohol
- Tannin
- Body
These components collectively define the profile of cool climate wines.
What is the sugar content typically like in cool climate wines?
Dry to Sweet
Cool climate wines can range from dry to sweet depending on various factors.
What is the acid level in cool climate wines?
Elevated to High Acids
High acidity is a hallmark of wines produced in cooler climates.
What is the typical alcohol level in cool climate wines?
Low to Moderate Alcohol
Alcohol levels tend to be lower in cool climate wines due to the cooler growing conditions.