Storage and Service of Wine - WSET L3 in Wines

Question 1

What is the ideal temperature range for long-term wine storage?

Answer 1

Between 10°C and 15°C (50°F to 59°F).

Question 2

Why should cork-sealed wines be stored on their side?

Answer 2

To keep the cork in contact with the wine, preventing it from drying out and allowing air to enter.

Question 3

What are the risks of storing wine near strong light?

Answer 3

Light can heat the wine, making it stale, and artificial light can cause unpleasant flavors to develop.

Question 4

What is the recommended service temperature for medium/full-bodied oaked white wines like White Burgundy?

Answer 4

Lightly chilled, 10–13°C (50–55°F).

Question 5

How should sparkling wines like Champagne be served?

Answer 5

Well chilled, 6–10°C (43–50°F).

Question 6

What temperature range is ideal for serving light-bodied red wines like Beaujolais?

Answer 6

Lightly chilled, 13°C (55°F).

Question 7

What is the best service temperature for medium/full-bodied red wines like Barolo?

Answer 7

Room temperature, 15–18°C (59–64°F).

Question 8

Why is over-chilling wine a problem?

Answer 8

It can mask the flavors and aromas, particularly in white, rosé, and sparkling wines.

Question 9

Why should red wines not be warmed on a radiator?

Answer 9

Sudden exposure to extreme heat can irreparably damage the wine.

Question 10

How should an ice bucket be prepared for chilling wine?

Answer 10

Fill it three-quarters with equal parts ice and water to ensure the bottle is fully surrounded.

Question 11

What type of glass is best for red wines?

Answer 11

Large glasses that allow air to contact a large wine surface, enhancing aromas and flavors.

Question 12

What glass shape is ideal for sparkling wines?

Answer 12

Flute glasses, which enhance bubbles and aromas.

Question 13

Why should fortified wines be served in small glasses?

Answer 13

Their high alcohol content is better suited to smaller servings, but the glass should still allow for swirling and nosing.

Question 14

How can you ensure clean glassware for wine service?

Answer 14

Use polished glasses, free of detergent or salt residue, as these can affect wine flavor and bubbles.

Question 15

What is the first step in opening a bottle of still wine?

Answer 15

Remove the top of the capsule by cutting below the bottle’s lip.

Question 16

Why is decanting important for wines with a heavy deposit?

Answer 16

It separates the wine from the deposit and aerates the wine for better aroma and flavor development.

Question 17

How should sparkling wine be opened safely?

Answer 17

Chill the bottle, loosen the wire cage, hold the cork, and tilt the bottle at a 30° angle while turning the bottle, not the cork.

Question 18

What sound should be heard when opening sparkling wine?

Answer 18

A quiet “phut,” not a loud pop or flying cork.

Question 19

How many 125 mL servings can be poured from a 750 mL bottle?

Answer 19

Six servings.

Question 20

What simple method can extend a wine’s life after opening?

Answer 20

Replace the closure and store the wine in a fridge.

Question 21

What is a vacuum system for preserving wine?

Answer 21

A system that removes oxygen from the bottle and seals it, unsuitable for sparkling wines.

Question 22

What is a blanket system for preserving wine?

Answer 22

A system that uses a gas heavier than oxygen to form a protective layer between the wine and air.

Question 23

What are the risks of extended refrigeration for cork-sealed wines?

Answer 23

It can harden the cork, causing it to lose elasticity and fail, allowing air to enter the bottle.

Question 24

Why should wine be kept away from vibrations?

Answer 24

To allow the wine to lie undisturbed, preserving its quality.

Question 25

How does chilling sparkling wine help with safety?

Answer 25

It reduces the internal pressure, making it safer to open.

Question 26

What can happen to sparkling wine stored for long periods in refrigeration?

Answer 26

It may lose its fizz.

Question 27

How should a decanting bottle be held when pouring?

Answer 27

In front of a light, pouring slowly until the deposit is near the neck.

Question 28

Why is opening a bottle early not effective for aeration?

Answer 28

Too little wine is exposed to air to have any meaningful effect.

Question 29

What is the purpose of polishing wine glasses before use?

Answer 29

To ensure they are clean and free from dust or fingerprints, enhancing the drinking experience.

Question 30

What is the key to proper wine storage?

Answer 30

Cool, constant temperature; horizontal for cork-sealed bottles; away from light, vibrations, and temperature fluctuations.