Greece - WSET L3 in Wines

Question 1

What are Greece’s most internationally recognized grape varieties?

Answer 1

Xinomavro, Agiorgitiko, and Assyrtiko.

Question 2

What is the climate of Greece?

Answer 2

Hot Mediterranean, with coastal areas moderated by the sea and cooler conditions at higher altitudes.

Question 3

What challenges do Greek vineyards face?

Answer 3

Drought and water stress, particularly in the eastern regions lying in the rain shadow of mountains.

Question 4

How many indigenous grape varieties are there in Greece?

Answer 4

Over 200.

Question 5

What is Naoussa PDO known for?

Answer 5

Red wines made exclusively from Xinomavro, often compared to Nebbiolo.

Question 6

What are the characteristics of Naoussa PDO wines?

Answer 6

High tannins, high acidity, medium color, and complex earthy and spicy aromas with age.

Question 7

Where is Nemea PDO located?

Answer 7

In the northern Peloponnese, near the narrow strip connecting the peninsula to mainland Greece.

Question 8

What grape variety is used in Nemea PDO wines?

Answer 8

Agiorgitiko.

Question 9

What are the characteristics of Nemea PDO wines?

Answer 9

Deep ruby color, smooth tannins, low to moderate acidity, with red fruit and sweet spice flavors.

Question 10

What is Santorini PDO known for?

Answer 10

White wines made from Assyrtiko, in dry and sweet styles.

Question 11

How are vines trained in Santorini?

Answer 11

Basket-shaped training system to protect against strong winds.

Question 12

What is Vinsanto?

Answer 12

A sweet wine from Santorini made from late-harvested, sun-dried Assyrtiko grapes.

Question 13

What are the flavors of Santorini’s dry Assyrtiko wines?

Answer 13

Ripe citrus and stone fruit, balanced by natural high acidity.

Question 14

How long are Vinsanto wines aged in oak?

Answer 14

At least two years, often longer.

Question 15

What are the key regions for Agiorgitiko?

Answer 15

Nemea PDO in the Peloponnese.

Question 16

What are the characteristics of Agiorgitiko?

Answer 16

Smooth tannins, low acidity, with red fruit and sweet spice flavors.

Question 17

What are the characteristics of Assyrtiko?

Answer 17

High acidity, ripe citrus, and mineral flavors, capable of producing age-worthy wines.

Question 18

What styles of wine are produced in Naoussa PDO?

Answer 18

Red wines exclusively, made from Xinomavro.

Question 19

What styles of wine are produced in Nemea PDO?

Answer 19

Agiorgitiko wines, including fruity early-drinking styles and age-worthy wines.

Question 20

How are Vinsanto wines made?

Answer 20

From late-harvested grapes dried in the sun for up to 14 days.

Question 21

What moderates the climate in Greek coastal regions?

Answer 21

The sea and strong winds.

Question 22

How does altitude affect Greek vineyards?

Answer 22

Cooler conditions at higher altitudes allow for fresher, more balanced wines.

Question 23

What are Greece’s two main wine classifications under EU law?

Answer 23

PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) and PGI (Protected Geographical Indication).

Question 24

How are most Greek PDO wines produced?

Answer 24

From native grape varieties adapted to hot, arid conditions.

Question 25

What is Greece’s unique selling point in the export market?

Answer 25

Indigenous grape varieties adapted to hot, arid conditions.

Question 26

How does the basket training system help Santorini vines?

Answer 26

Protects them from strong winds and retains soil moisture.

Question 27

What is the typical altitude of vineyards in Naoussa PDO?

Answer 27

Vineyards are planted at altitudes between 150 and 400 meters, providing cooler growing conditions.

Question 28

What is the typical altitude of vineyards in Nemea PDO?

Answer 28

Vineyards range from 230 to 900 meters, with higher altitudes producing fresher, more structured wines.

Question 29

How does altitude influence Naoussa PDO wines?

Answer 29

Cooler temperatures at higher altitudes preserve acidity and promote slower ripening for Xinomavro.

Question 30

How does altitude influence Nemea PDO wines?

Answer 30

Higher altitude vineyards produce lighter, more aromatic Agiorgitiko, while lower sites yield richer, fuller-bodied wines.