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Advanced Sommelier > Spain > Flashcards

Spain Flashcards

1
Q

What are the four principal grape varieties of Rioja?

A

Tempranillo, Garnacha, Mazuelo (Carignan), Graciano

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2
Q

What is the primary grape of Ribera del Duero?

A

Tempranillo (locally called Tinto Fino or Tinta del País)

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3
Q

What is the climate of Rioja?

A

Mediterranean with Atlantic and continental influences

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4
Q

What is the climate of Ribera del Duero?

A

Continental with hot summers and cold winters, and high diurnal temperature variation

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5
Q

What are the three subregions of Rioja?

A

Rioja Alta, Rioja Alavesa, Rioja Oriental (formerly Rioja Baja)

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6
Q

What is the minimum aging requirement for Crianza wines in Rioja and Ribera del Duero?

A

2 years total, with at least 1 year in oak

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7
Q

What is the aging requirement for Reserva wines in Rioja and Ribera del Duero?

A

3 years total, with at least 1 year in oak and 6 months in bottle

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8
Q

What is the aging requirement for Gran Reserva wines in Rioja and Ribera del Duero?

A

5 years total, with at least 2 years in oak and 2 years in bottle

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9
Q

What is the significance of Rioja DOCa status?

A

It was the first region in Spain to receive DOCa (Denominación de Origen Calificada) status in 1991

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10
Q

What is the primary style of wines from Rioja Alta?

A

Structured and elegant, with balanced acidity

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11
Q

What is the primary style of Rioja Alavesa wines?

A

Generally lighter and fresher due to higher altitudes and Atlantic influence

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12
Q

What is the primary style of wines from Rioja Oriental?

A

Riper and fuller-bodied due to the warmer, drier climate

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13
Q

What is the typical blending role of Graciano in Rioja wines?

A

Adds aromatic complexity and aging potential

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14
Q

What is the typical blending role of Mazuelo in Rioja wines?

A

Provides acidity, structure, and color stability

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15
Q

What are Viñedos Singulares in Rioja?

A

A single-vineyard classification introduced in 2017 for premium wines

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16
Q

What is the maximum yield for Viñedos Singulares?

A

5,000 kg/ha for red varieties

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17
Q

What is the minimum vine age for a vineyard to qualify as Viñedos Singulares?

A

35 years

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18
Q

What is the minimum percentage of Garnacha required for Rosé wines in Rioja?

A

25%

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19
Q

What is the significance of Lopez de Heredia in Rioja?

A

A traditional producer known for long-aged, oxidative-style wines

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20
Q

What is the role of American oak in Rioja winemaking?

A

Provides coconut and dill notes, commonly used in traditional styles

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21
Q

What is the role of French oak in modern Rioja winemaking?

A

Adds subtle spice and elegance, favored by modernist producers

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22
Q

What is the maximum residual sugar allowed in Rioja wines labeled as ‘seco’ (dry)?

A

4 g/L

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23
Q

What differentiates Gran Añada in Rioja sparkling wines?

A

A sparkling wine category with a minimum aging requirement of 36 months on lees

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24
Q

What is the primary difference between traditional and modern Rioja styles?

A

Traditional Rioja focuses on extended aging in American oak, while modern styles emphasize fruit purity and French oak

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25
Q

What is the significance of Contador in Rioja?

A

A benchmark producer for modern, high-end Rioja wines

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26
Q

What is the aging requirement for white Reserva wines in Rioja?

A

2 years total, with at least 6 months in oak

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27
Q

What is the minimum alcohol requirement for Rioja DOCa red wines?

A

11.5%

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28
Q

What does Cosecha mean in Rioja labeling?

A

Indicates young wines with little or no oak aging

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29
Q

What is the role of alberiza soils in Rioja Alta?

A

Chalky soils that retain moisture, beneficial for high-quality viticulture

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30
Q

What is the typical elevation range for vineyards in Rioja?

A

300-700 meters

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31
Q

Who produces ‘Viña Tondonia’?

A

López de Heredia

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32
Q

When did Ribera del Duero receive DO status?

A

1982

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33
Q

What is the typical alcohol range for Ribera del Duero wines?

A

13-15%

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34
Q

What distinguishes Ribera del Duero wines from Rioja wines?

A

Ribera del Duero wines are often darker, fuller-bodied, and more tannic

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35
Q

What is the minimum percentage of Tempranillo required in Ribera del Duero DO wines?

A

75%

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36
Q

What are common blending partners for Tempranillo in Ribera del Duero?

A

Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Malbec

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37
Q

What is the typical aging vessel for Ribera del Duero wines?

A

French oak is more common than American oak

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38
Q

What is the elevation range for Ribera del Duero vineyards?

A

750-1,000 meters
2300 - 3300 ft

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39
Q

What is the significance of Vega Sicilia in Ribera del Duero?

A

Spain’s most iconic estate, known for producing the legendary ‘Único’

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40
Q

What is the aging requirement for Vega Sicilia ‘Único’?

A

Typically aged for 10+ years before release

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41
Q

What is the primary style of wines from Ribera del Duero?

A

Powerful, tannic reds with dark fruit and spice notes

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42
Q

What distinguishes ‘Pingus’ in Ribera del Duero?

A

A cult wine made from low-yielding Tempranillo vines

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43
Q

What is the role of diurnal variation in Ribera del Duero?

A

Enhances acidity and aromatic complexity

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44
Q

What is the maximum yield for Ribera del Duero DO red wines?

A

7,000 kg/ha

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45
Q

What is the aging requirement for Ribera del Duero Gran Reserva wines?

A

Minimum 5 years, with at least 2 years in oak

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46
Q

What is the primary white grape permitted in Ribera del Duero?

A

Albillo Mayor

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47
Q

What is the role of Albillo Mayor in Ribera del Duero blends?

A

Adds freshness and aromatics

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48
Q

What distinguishes ‘Flor de Pingus’ from ‘Pingus’?

A

Flor de Pingus is the second wine of Pingus, made from younger vines

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49
Q

What is the primary soil type near the Duero River?

A

Alluvial soils

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50
Q

What is the significance of Tinto Pesquera in Ribera del Duero?

A

One of the region’s most influential producers, founded by Alejandro Fernández

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51
Q

What distinguishes wines from the Valladolid area of Ribera del Duero?

A

Often more elegant and fruit-driven due to sandy soils

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52
Q

What is the alcohol minimum for Ribera del Duero DO red wines?

A

11.5%

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53
Q

What is the significance of Emilio Moro in Ribera del Duero?

A

Known for crafting modern, approachable Tempranillo wines

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54
Q

What is the role of Malbec in Ribera del Duero blends?

A

Adds color and richness to the wine

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55
Q

What is the typical elevation range for Vega Sicilia vineyards?

A

Around 700-900 meters
2300-2950 ft

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56
Q

What is the primary grape variety of Rías Baixas?

A

Albariño.

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57
Q

What is the climate of Rías Baixas?

A

Atlantic, with high rainfall and mild temperatures.

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58
Q

What are the three primary grape varieties of Txakoli wines from the Basque Country?

A
  • Hondarrabi Zuri
  • Hondarrabi Beltza
  • Petit Courbu
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59
Q

What is the typical style of Txakoli wines?

A

Light, high-acid, slightly sparkling whites.

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60
Q

What are the five subzones of Rías Baixas?

A
  • Val do Salnés
  • Condado do Tea
  • O Rosal
  • Ribeira do Ulla
  • Soutomaior
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61
Q

What is the minimum percentage of Albariño required in Rías Baixas varietal wines?

A

100%.

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62
Q

What is the primary training system used in Rías Baixas vineyards?

A

Pergola (parral) to prevent disease and maximize airflow.

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63
Q

What distinguishes Basque Txakoli wines from Rías Baixas wines?

A

Txakoli wines are lighter, often slightly effervescent, and lower in alcohol.

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64
Q

What is the primary style of wines from Val do Salnés?

A

Crisp, high-acid Albariño with pronounced minerality and citrus notes.

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65
Q

What distinguishes O Rosal wines from other Rías Baixas subzones?

A

Often blended with Treixadura and Loureiro, producing aromatic and floral wines.

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66
Q

What is the primary style of wines from Condado do Tea?

A

Fuller-bodied Albariño with riper fruit due to warmer inland conditions.

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67
Q

What is the smallest subzone in Rías Baixas?

A

Soutomaior.

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68
Q

What grape varieties are allowed in Rías Baixas blends?

A
  • Albariño
  • Loureiro
  • Treixadura
  • Caiño Blanco
  • Godello
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69
Q

What is the aging potential of high-quality Albariño wines?

A

5-10 years, especially for barrel-fermented or lees-aged examples.

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70
Q

What winemaking technique enhances texture in Albariño wines?

A

Lees aging (sur lie).

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71
Q

What is the primary characteristic of Albariño wines aged on lees?

A

Enhanced creaminess, complexity, and yeasty notes.

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72
Q

What is Ribeira do Ulla?

A

A newer subzone of Rias Baixas producing fresher, lighter Albariño wines.

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73
Q

What is a notable producer in Rías Baixas?

A

Bodegas Fillaboa.

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74
Q

What distinguishes Granbazán as a producer?

A

Known for terroir-driven Albariño wines with mineral complexity.

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75
Q

What is the alcohol minimum for Rías Baixas wines?

A

11.3%.

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76
Q

What is the typical planting density in Rías Baixas vineyards?

A

High-density planting to manage yields and enhance quality.

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77
Q

What is the significance of the Atlantic Ocean for Rías Baixas wines?

A

Provides cooling breezes, which preserve acidity and aromatic freshness.

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78
Q

What is the traditional food pairing for Albariño wines?

A

Seafood, particularly shellfish.

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79
Q

What is the primary difference between Albariño and Godello in Rías Baixas?

A

Albariño is crisper and more aromatic; Godello is fuller-bodied and richer.

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80
Q

What is the maximum yield for Albariño in Rías Baixas DOCa?

A

12,000 kg/ha.

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81
Q

What is the significance of Gran Vino de Rías Baixas?

A

A new classification introduced in 2021 for wines from top vineyards.

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82
Q

What is the typical acidity level of Albariño wines?

A

High acidity (6-8 g/L).

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83
Q

What distinguishes Albariño from Val do Salnés compared to Condado do Tea?

A

Val do Salnés produces fresher, more mineral-driven wines; Condado do Tea has riper, fuller-bodied wines.

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84
Q

What is the role of Treixadura in Rías Baixas blends?

A

Adds floral and tropical fruit notes.

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85
Q

What is bâtonnage, and how is it used in Albariño production?

A

Lees stirring to enhance texture and complexity.

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86
Q

What is the importance of Soutomaior as a subzone?

A

Known for small-scale production of concentrated Albariño wines.

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87
Q

What is the aging requirement for Rías Baixas sparkling wines?

A

Minimum 9 months on lees.

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88
Q

What are the three primary Txakoli-producing regions in the Basque Country?

A
  • Getariako Txakolina
  • Bizkaiko Txakolina
  • Arabako Txakolina
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89
Q

What is the primary style of wines from Getariako Txakolina?

A

Light-bodied, high-acid whites with slight effervescence.

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90
Q

What distinguishes Bizkaiko Txakolina wines?

A

More complex and fuller-bodied than Getariako Txakolina wines.

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91
Q

What is the primary style of wines from Arabako Txakolina?

A

Fresh and fruity whites with slightly higher alcohol and less effervescence.

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92
Q

What is the primary white grape of Txakoli wines?

A

Hondarrabi Zuri.

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93
Q

What is the primary red grape of Txakoli wines?

A

Hondarrabi Beltza.

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94
Q

What is the typical alcohol level of Txakoli wines?

A

9.5-12%.

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95
Q

What is the primary soil type in Getariako Txakolina?

A

Limestone and sandy soils.

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96
Q

What distinguishes Txakoli wines from other Spanish whites?

A

High acidity, low alcohol, and slight spritz.

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97
Q

What is zarzuela, and how does it relate to Txakoli?

A

A Basque seafood dish often paired with Txakoli wines.

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98
Q

What is the aging potential of Txakoli wines?

A

Typically consumed young, but some can age up to 5 years.

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99
Q

What is the maximum yield for Txakoli wines?

A

8,000 kg/ha.

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100
Q

What winemaking technique is used to maintain freshness in Txakoli wines?

A

Cold fermentation in stainless steel tanks.

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101
Q

What is the significance of Gaintza in Txakoli production?

A

A renowned producer in Getariako Txakolina, known for traditional and modern styles.

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102
Q

What is the role of Petit Courbu in Txakoli blends?

A

Adds richness and texture to the wine.

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103
Q

What distinguishes sparkling Txakoli wines?

A

Fully sparkling versions with longer lees aging for complexity.

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104
Q

What is the traditional serving method for Txakoli wines?

A

Poured from a height into a glass to aerate and enhance effervescence.

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105
Q

What is the role of high diurnal variation in Txakoli vineyards?

A

Preserves acidity and enhances aromatics.

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106
Q

What is the typical sweetness level of Txakoli wines?

A

Predominantly dry, with some off-dry styles.

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107
Q

What is the traditional vine training system in Basque vineyards?

A

Trellising to maximize airflow and reduce disease pressure.

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108
Q

What distinguishes Arabako Txakolina wines from Getariako Txakolina?

A

Arabako wines are often less spritzy and more structured.

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109
Q

What is the alcohol minimum for Txakoli wines?

A

9.5%.

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110
Q

What is the primary export market for Txakoli wines?

A
  • United States
  • Germany
  • United Kingdom
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111
Q

What is the primary food pairing for Txakoli wines?

A

Pintxos (Basque tapas) and seafood.

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112
Q

What is the significance of Itsasmendi in Txakoli production?

A

A leading producer experimenting with oak-aged and single-vineyard Txakoli wines.

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113
Q

What are the two DOQ (Denominación de Origen Calificada) regions in Spain?

A

Rioja and Priorat

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114
Q

What are the primary red grape varieties of Priorat?

A
  • Garnacha (Grenache)
  • Cariñena (Carignan)
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115
Q

What are the primary white grape varieties of Priorat?

A
  • Garnacha Blanca
  • Macabeo
  • Pedro Ximénez
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116
Q

What is the primary soil type in Priorat?

A

Llicorella (decomposed slate with quartzite)

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117
Q

What are the three main grape varieties of Cava in Penedès?

A
  • Macabeo
  • Xarel·lo
  • Parellada
118
Q

What distinguishes Penedès DO from Priorat DOQ in terms of geography?

A

Penedès is a flatter region near the coast; Priorat is mountainous and inland

119
Q

What is the aging requirement for Priorat Gran Reserva?

A

Minimum 5 years, with at least 2 years in oak

120
Q

What is the aging requirement for Cava Gran Reserva?

A

Minimum 30 months on lees

121
Q

What is the climate of Priorat?

A

Mediterranean with continental influences and low rainfall

122
Q

What is the climate of Penedès?

A

Mediterranean, with subzones ranging from coastal to mountainous

123
Q

What is the role of Llicorella soils in Priorat wines?

A

Retains heat and water, enhancing ripeness and minerality in the wines

124
Q

What is the typical style of Priorat red wines?

A

Full-bodied with high alcohol, concentrated dark fruit, and pronounced minerality

125
Q

What are the three classifications for vineyards in Priorat?

A
  • Vins de Vila (village wines)
  • Vi de Paratge (single-site wines)
  • Gran Vinya Classificada (grand cru equivalent)
126
Q

What distinguishes Garnacha from Cariñena in Priorat blends?

A

Garnacha adds fruitiness and softness; Cariñena contributes acidity, structure, and longevity

127
Q

What is the significance of Álvaro Palacios in Priorat?

A

A key figure in the region’s modern revival, known for iconic wines like L’Ermita

128
Q

What is the minimum alcohol for Priorat DOQ red wines?

A

13.5%

129
Q

What is the typical aging vessel for Priorat wines?

A

French oak barrels, with some producers experimenting with amphorae

130
Q

What is the maximum yield for Priorat DOQ red wines?

A

6,000 kg/ha

131
Q

What is the significance of Clos Mogador in Priorat?

A

A pioneering estate that helped establish Priorat as a top wine region

132
Q

What is the aging requirement for Priorat Reserva?

A

Minimum 3 years, with at least 1 year in oak

133
Q

What distinguishes Priorat village wines (Vins de Vila)?

A

Must come from one of the region’s 12 authorized villages

134
Q

What is the role of old vines in Priorat winemaking?

A

Low yields and high concentration of flavors, especially in Garnacha and Cariñena

135
Q

What is the elevation range for Priorat vineyards?

A

100-750 meters

136
Q

What is the primary characteristic of white wines from Priorat?

A

Full-bodied with mineral and herbal notes

137
Q

What distinguishes Les Aubaguetes in Priorat?

A

A single-vineyard wine from Álvaro Palacios, showcasing site-specific complexity

138
Q

What is the significance of Vi de Paratge wines in Priorat?

A

Recognized as high-quality, single-site expressions within the DOQ

139
Q

What is the role of terraced vineyards in Priorat?

A

Maximizes sunlight exposure and drainage on steep slopes

140
Q

What is the typical alcohol content of Priorat wines?

A

14-15.5%

141
Q

What is Scala Dei’s role in Priorat history?

A

A historic winery associated with the Carthusian monks who established viticulture in the region

142
Q

What is the primary blending partner for Garnacha Blanca in Priorat whites?

A

Macabeo

143
Q

What distinguishes modern Priorat wines from traditional styles?

A

Modern wines emphasize freshness and elegance, while traditional styles were heavier and more oxidative

144
Q

What is the typical acidity level of Priorat wines?

A

Moderate to high, especially in wines with Cariñena

145
Q

What is the role of bush vines (alberello) in Priorat?

A

Reduces vine stress in the hot, dry climate

146
Q

What is the significance of Mas Doix in Priorat?

A

A leading producer known for elegant and age-worthy wines

147
Q

What is the minimum vine age required for Gran Vinya Classificada wines in Priorat?

A

75 years

148
Q

What is the primary sparkling wine produced in Penedès?

A

Cava

149
Q

What distinguishes Corpinnat from traditional Cava?

A

Focuses on quality, organic viticulture, and extended lees aging

150
Q

What is the minimum lees aging for Cava de Paraje Calificado?

A

36 months

151
Q

What are the three subzones of Penedès?

A
  • Baix Penedès
  • Medio Penedès
  • Alt Penedès
152
Q

What is the primary style of wines from Alt Penedès?

A

High-acid whites and sparkling wines due to cooler temperatures

153
Q

What is the primary style of wines from Baix Penedès?

A

Riper reds and fuller-bodied whites due to the warmer climate

154
Q

What distinguishes Xarel·lo from Macabeo in Cava blends?

A

Xarel·lo adds structure and ageability; Macabeo contributes freshness and floral notes

155
Q

What is the role of Parellada in Cava production?

A

Adds elegance and finesse

156
Q

What is the aging requirement for Penedès Gran Reserva wines?

A

Minimum 2 years in oak and bottle

157
Q

What is the significance of Raventós i Blanc in Penedès?

A

A historic producer that left the Cava DO to focus on terroir-driven sparkling wines

158
Q

What is the primary grape of Baix Penedès reds?

A
  • Garnacha
  • Monastrell
159
Q

What distinguishes Penedès still wines from sparkling wines?

A

Still wines can use international varieties like Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Merlot

160
Q

What is the minimum alcohol requirement for Penedès DO wines?

A

11%

161
Q

What is the primary soil type in Penedès vineyards?

A

Clay-limestone with some sandy and alluvial soils

162
Q

What is the role of Petit Grain Muscat in Penedès wines?

A

Adds aromatic intensity to sweet and dry whites

163
Q

What distinguishes Gran Reserva Cava from Reserva Cava?

A

Gran Reserva requires 30 months on lees, compared to 15 months for Reserva

164
Q

What is the significance of Torres in Penedès?

A

A major producer known for both traditional and innovative wines

165
Q

What is the primary difference between Classic Penedès and Cava?

A

Classic Penedès must be 100% organic and aged for at least 15 months

166
Q

What is the role of Chardonnay in Penedès sparkling wines?

A

Adds richness and body

167
Q

What is the significance of Gramona in Penedès?

A

Known for long-aged, premium sparkling wines

168
Q

What is the primary grape of Sumoll in Penedès reds?

A

An indigenous variety producing rustic, high-acid reds

169
Q

What is the typical alcohol content for Penedès DO wines?

A

11-14.5%

170
Q

What distinguishes Baix Penedès Garnacha from Priorat Garnacha?

A

Baix Penedès Garnacha is often fruitier and less mineral-driven

171
Q

What is the primary aging vessel for high-quality Penedès reds?

A

French oak barrels

172
Q

What is the significance of Cava Reserva de la Familia by Juve y Camps?

A

A benchmark for high-quality, extended lees-aged sparkling wines

173
Q

What are the two DOCa (Denominación de Origen Calificada) regions in Spain?

A

Rioja and Priorat

174
Q

What is the classification system for Spanish wines?

A

Vino de Mesa, Vino de la Tierra, DO (Denominación de Origen), DOCa (Denominación de Origen Calificada), and Vinos de Pago

175
Q

What is the purpose of Vinos de Pago classification?

A

To recognize single estates with unique terroirs and strict quality standards

176
Q

What is the primary red grape of Bierzo DO?

A

Mencía

177
Q

What is the primary white grape of Rueda DO?

A

Verdejo

178
Q

What is the most widely planted grape variety in Spain?

A

Airén

179
Q

What is the main grape used in Cava production outside of Penedès?

A

Macabeo, especially in Aragón and Valencia

180
Q

What distinguishes Garnacha Tintorera from other Garnacha varieties?

A

Garnacha Tintorera (Alicante Bouschet) has red flesh, contributing more color and tannin

181
Q

What is the primary red grape of Toro DO?

A

Tinta de Toro (a local clone of Tempranillo)

182
Q

What is the typical aging requirement for Gran Reserva wines in Spain?

A

5 years total, with at least 2 years in oak and 2 years in bottle

183
Q

What are the primary grape varieties of Valdeorras DO?

A

Godello (white) and Mencía (red)

184
Q

What distinguishes Ribeira Sacra DO wines?

A

High-acid, mineral-driven reds made from Mencía grown on steep, terraced vineyards

185
Q

What are the primary soils in Rías Baixas?

A

Granite-based sandy soils with good drainage

186
Q

What distinguishes Monterrei DO wines?

A

Fresh whites from Godello and complex reds from Mencía and Bastardo (Trousseau)

187
Q

What is the primary style of wines from Ribeiro DO?

A

Whites with high acidity, often blends of Treixadura, Godello, and Loureira

188
Q

What is the minimum percentage of Mencía required in Bierzo DO reds?

A

70%

189
Q

What is the aging potential of Godello wines?

A

Up to 10 years for barrel-aged examples

190
Q

What is the significance of Descendientes de J. Palacios in Bierzo?

A

A leading producer known for terroir-driven Mencía wines like “Corullón”

191
Q

What is the main difference between Rías Baixas and Valdeorras whites?

A

Rías Baixas Albariño is more aromatic; Valdeorras Godello is richer and more structured

192
Q

What is the primary soil type in Ribeira Sacra?

A

Slate and granite

193
Q

What is the significance of terraced vineyards in Ribeira Sacra?

A

Helps manage the steep slopes and maximizes sunlight exposure

194
Q

What is a notable producer in Valdeorras?

A

Rafael Palacios, known for high-quality Godello wines

195
Q

What is the primary blending partner for Mencía in Ribeira Sacra reds?

A

Garnacha Tintorera or Bastardo (Trousseau)

196
Q

What is the typical alcohol level for Mencía wines from Bierzo?

A

12-14%

197
Q

What distinguishes Albariño from Loureira in Rías Baixas blends?

A

Albariño adds fruit and floral notes, while Loureira contributes aromatics and acidity

198
Q

What is the primary grape of La Mancha DO?

A

Airén for whites, Tempranillo (Cencibel) for reds

199
Q

What distinguishes Vinos de Madrid DO?

A

High-altitude wines, often made from Garnacha and Albillo Real

200
Q

What is the primary red grape of Manchuela DO?

A

Bobal

201
Q

What distinguishes wines from Almansa DO?

A

Robust reds from Garnacha Tintorera and Monastrell

202
Q

What is the significance of Pago Dominio de Valdepusa?

A

One of the first estates to achieve Vinos de Pago status

203
Q

What is the primary grape of Toro DO?

A

Tinta de Toro (a local clone of Tempranillo)

204
Q

What is the typical style of wines from Campo de Borja DO?

A

Rich, fruit-forward reds from Garnacha

205
Q

What distinguishes Jumilla DO from other regions in Murcia?

A

Focus on Monastrell, often made into powerful, tannic reds

206
Q

What is the role of limestone soils in Jumilla?

A

Retains moisture, essential in the hot, arid climate

207
Q

What is the typical style of wines from Cigales DO?

A

Rosé wines (claretes) made from Tempranillo and Garnacha

208
Q

What distinguishes Utiel-Requena DO wines?

A

Bold, tannic reds primarily from Bobal

209
Q

What is the role of Bobal in Valencia wines?

A

Adds acidity and structure, often used for rosés and reds

210
Q

What is a notable producer in Toro DO?

A

Numanthia

211
Q

What is the significance of Calatayud DO?

A

Known for high-quality Garnacha grown on rocky, high-altitude vineyards

212
Q

What distinguishes Alicante DO wines?

A

Sweet and fortified wines from Monastrell and Moscatel

213
Q

What is the primary style of wines from Yecla DO?

A

Monastrell-based reds, often full-bodied and fruit-forward

214
Q

What is the typical alcohol content for Monastrell wines from Jumilla?

A

14-16%

215
Q

What is the role of Airén in central Spain’s wine production?

A

Produces neutral whites and is used for distillation

216
Q

What distinguishes Garnacha from Campo de Borja compared to Priorat?

A

Campo de Borja Garnacha is fruitier and less mineral-driven than Priorat’s

217
Q

What are the three Txakoli-producing DOs in Basque Country?

A

Getariako Txakolina, Bizkaiko Txakolina, Arabako Txakolina

218
Q

What is the primary grape of Txakoli wines?

A

Hondarrabi Zuri

219
Q

What distinguishes Getariako Txakolina wines?

A

Slight effervescence and high acidity

220
Q

What is the primary red grape of Txakoli wines?

A

Hondarrabi Beltza

221
Q

What is the aging potential of high-quality Txakoli wines?

A

Up to 5 years for structured examples

222
Q

What is the traditional serving method for Txakoli?

A

Poured from a height to aerate and enhance effervescence

223
Q

What distinguishes Arabako Txakolina wines?

A

Often fuller-bodied and less spritzy than other Txakoli wines

224
Q

What is the primary soil type in Basque vineyards?

A

Limestone and clay

225
Q

What is the significance of Bierzo DO in northwest Spain?

A

Produces high-quality, mineral-driven Mencía wines

226
Q

What is the primary blending partner for Mencía in Bierzo reds?

A

Garnacha Tintorera

227
Q

What is the primary style of wines from Ribera Sacra?

A

Elegant, high-acid reds from steep, terraced vineyards

228
Q

What distinguishes Monterrei DO wines?

A

Fresh whites from Godello and bold reds from Mencía

229
Q

What is the significance of Ribeiro DO?

A

Known for aromatic whites from Treixadura and Godello

230
Q

What is the typical alcohol range for Mencía wines?

A

12-14.5%

231
Q

What is the primary style of wines from Rueda DO?

A

Crisp, aromatic whites from Verdejo, often with herbal and tropical notes

232
Q

What is the most widely planted grape variety in Spain?

A

Airén

233
Q

What is Spain’s classification system for wine?

A

Vino de Mesa, Vino de la Tierra, DO (Denominación de Origen), DOCa, and Vinos de Pago

234
Q

What are the two DOCa regions in Spain?

A

Rioja and Priorat

235
Q

What is Vinos de Pago?

A

A classification for single estates with unique terroirs and high-quality standards

236
Q

What is the minimum aging for Spanish Gran Reserva reds?

A

5 years, with at least 2 years in oak and 2 years in bottle

237
Q

What is the most planted red grape variety in Spain?

A

Tempranillo

238
Q

What is the significance of Garnacha Tintorera?

A

A teinturier grape (red-fleshed) used for deeper color and tannin

239
Q

What is the aging requirement for Spanish Crianza red wines?

A

2 years, with at least 6 months in oak (12 months in DOCa regions)

240
Q

What is Spain’s oldest DO?

A

Rioja, established in 1925

241
Q

What is the role of high-altitude vineyards in Spain?

A

Helps preserve acidity and aromatics in a warm climate

242
Q

What are the three subregions of Rioja?

A

Rioja Alta, Rioja Alavesa, Rioja Oriental

243
Q

What is the primary soil type in Ribera del Duero?

A

Chalky limestone with clay and sand

244
Q

What is the minimum percentage of Tempranillo in Ribera del Duero DO wines?

A

75%

245
Q

What is the role of Graciano in Rioja blends?

A

Adds acidity, structure, and aromatic complexity

246
Q

What distinguishes Tinto de Toro from Tempranillo in Toro DO?

A

Tinto de Toro is a local clone of Tempranillo, producing bolder, more tannic wines

247
Q

What is the minimum aging for Reserva wines in Rioja and Ribera del Duero?

A

3 years, with at least 1 year in oak

248
Q

What is the role of American oak in traditional Rioja winemaking?

A

Adds coconut, vanilla, and dill aromas

249
Q

What distinguishes Vega Sicilia in Ribera del Duero?

A

Known for its iconic “Único,” aged 10+ years before release

250
Q

What is the significance of López de Heredia in Rioja?

A

A traditional producer known for long-aged, oxidative-style wines

251
Q

What is the typical alcohol level of Ribera del Duero wines?

A

13.5–15%

252
Q

What is the primary grape of Bierzo DO reds?

A

Mencía

253
Q

What distinguishes Godello wines from Valdeorras DO?

A

Fuller-bodied and more structured than Albariño

254
Q

What are the five subzones of Rías Baixas DO?

A

Val do Salnés, O Rosal, Condado do Tea, Ribeira do Ulla, Soutomaior

255
Q

What is the primary soil type in Rías Baixas?

A

Granite-based sandy soils

256
Q

What is the role of slate soils in Ribeira Sacra?

A

Contributes to the minerality and elegance of Mencía wines

257
Q

What is the aging potential of high-quality Albariño wines?

A

Up to 10 years for lees-aged examples

258
Q

What distinguishes wines from Ribeiro DO?

A

Aromatic whites from Treixadura, Loureira, and Godello

259
Q

What is the significance of Descendientes de J. Palacios in Bierzo?

A

A leading producer making terroir-driven Mencía wines like “Corullón”

260
Q

What distinguishes Albariño from Loureira in Rías Baixas blends?

A

Albariño adds fruitiness; Loureira provides floral and herbal notes

261
Q

What is the typical style of wines from Monterrei DO?

A

Fresh whites from Godello and Treixadura, and soft reds from Mencía

262
Q

What is the primary soil type in Priorat?

A

Llicorella (slate and quartz)

263
Q

What are the primary red grapes of Priorat?

A

Garnacha and Cariñena

264
Q

What distinguishes Corpinnat from Cava?

A

Focus on organic viticulture, estate-grown grapes, and extended lees aging

265
Q

What is the minimum lees aging for Cava Gran Reserva?

A

30 months

266
Q

What is the significance of Clos Mogador in Priorat?

A

A pioneering estate in modern Priorat winemaking

267
Q

What is the typical style of Priorat reds?

A

Full-bodied, high-alcohol wines with dark fruit and minerality

268
Q

What distinguishes Xarel·lo in Cava blends?

A

Adds structure and aging potential

269
Q

What is the role of Parellada in Penedès wines?

A

Provides elegance and floral notes in blends

270
Q

What distinguishes Penedès still wines from sparkling wines?

A

Still wines often feature international varieties like Chardonnay and Merlot

271
Q

What is the significance of Raventós i Blanc in Catalonia?

A

A leading producer focusing on terroir-driven sparkling wines outside the Cava DO

272
Q

What is the primary grape of Jumilla DO?

A

Monastrell

273
Q

What is the role of limestone soils in Jumilla DO?

A

Retains moisture, essential in the arid climate

274
Q

What distinguishes Alicante DO wines?

A

Known for Monastrell reds and sweet Moscatel wines

275
Q

What is the primary grape of Utiel-Requena DO?

A

Bobal

276
Q

What distinguishes wines from Almansa DO?

A

Bold reds from Garnacha Tintorera and Monastrell

277
Q

What is the significance of Pago Dominio de Valdepusa?

A

A Vinos de Pago estate producing high-quality wines in La Mancha

278
Q

What distinguishes Bobal wines from Utiel-Requena DO?

A

High acidity and tannins, used for reds and rosés

279
Q

What is the primary grape of La Mancha DO whites?

A

Airén

280
Q

What is the typical alcohol level for Monastrell wines in Jumilla?

A

14-16%

281
Q

What is the significance of Toro DO?

A

Known for powerful reds from Tinta de Toro (a Tempranillo clone)

282
Q

What are the three Txakoli-producing regions?

A

Getariako Txakolina, Bizkaiko Txakolina, Arabako Txakolina

283
Q

What is the primary grape of Txakoli wines?

A

Hondarrabi Zuri

284
Q

What distinguishes Getariako Txakolina wines?

A

Light, high-acid whites with slight effervescence

285
Q

What is the primary red grape of Txakoli wines?

A

Hondarrabi Beltza

286
Q

What is the role of limestone soils in Txakoli vineyards?

A

Enhances minerality and acidity

287
Q

What is the traditional serving method for Txakoli wines?

A

Poured from a height to enhance effervescence

288
Q

What distinguishes Arabako Txakolina wines?

A

Often fuller-bodied and less spritzy

289
Q

What is the aging potential of high-quality Txakoli wines?

A

Up to 5 years for structured examples

290
Q

What is the primary food pairing for Txakoli wines?

A

Seafood and pintxos (Basque tapas)

291
Q

What is the significance of Gaintza in Txakoli production?

A

A leading producer in Getariako Txakolina, known for traditional and modern styles

Advanced Sommelier (24 decks)

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