Wine Components, Faults, Varietals Flashcards
Define Wine.
Wine is the fermented product of grapes.
What creates the character and complexity of wine and where do they come from?
Chemical compounds.
a) the grapes themselves
b) fermentation and wine-making
c) chemical reactions before or during fermentation, or as a result of aging.
What are the 5 major components of wine?
- Water
- Alcohol
- Acid
- Sugar
- Phenolic Compounds
What percentage of wine is typically comprised of water?
80-90%
Where does the water found in wine mostly come from?
Grapes
How much of wine is TYPICALLY comprised of alcohol?
10-15%
What is the primary alcohol found in wine?
Ethyl Alcohol or Ethanol
What secondary alcohols are sometimes found in wine?
a) Methyl Alcohol or Methanol
b) Glycerol
c) Fusel Alcohols/Oil or Higher Alcohols
What is a volatile compound?
One that evaporates easily.
What component of wine most often contributes “weight” or “body”?
Alcohol
What are “legs” or “tears” and what usually causes them?
Slow or fast-moving drops that appear on the inside of a glass after a wine is swirled; slower-moving tears can be caused by higher alcohol.
What percentage of wine is generally comprised of acids?
.5-.75%
What are 2 major and 2 minor acids found in GRAPES?
1) Tartaric
2) Malic
3) (Citric)
4) (Succinic)
What are 3 acids produced during fermentation?
1) Lactic
2) Acetic
3) Succinic
What is the strongest acid, in terms of PH, found in wine?
Tartaric
What acid has a tendency to form solid crystals and how can it be prevented?
a) Tartaric
b) Cold Stabilization
Grapes from what climate are generally high in malic acid?
Cool
Describe the flavor profile of malic acid?
Tart green apples
What winemaking process softens the taste of malic acid?
Malolactic Fermentation or Conversion
Describe Citric Acid?
Present in very small amounts in grapes, sometimes used to increase total acidity during wine making, has a notable citrusy flavor not suitable for quality wines.
What is the catalyst for malolactic conversion?
Lactic Acid Bacteria
What are the characteristics of lactic acid in wine?
Soft, smooth, creamy or buttery mouthfeel
What causes high levels of acetic acid?
Usually a chemical reaction between ethanol and oxygen caused by acetobacter.
Describe the taste of acetic acid.
Vinegar
What characteristic distinguishes acetic acids from other acids?
It’s volatile.
Which acid is both a product of winemaking and found in grapes themselves?
Succinic Acid
Describe the taste of succinic acid.
Sharp, bitter, salty
What are the two measures of acid in wine and what do they measure.
Total Acidity, which measures volume and pH, which measures strength
What is the pH of most wines?
Between 2.9 - 3.9
What kind of scale is pH measured on what does that mean?
Logarithmic, so the lower the number, the stronger the acid
What measure determines sulfur additions during winemaking?
pH
Grapes contain what percentage of sugar AT HARVEST?
15-28%
What two sugars are found in roughly equal amounts in grapes?
Glucose and Fructose
What is a monosaccharide?
A “simple” sugar which can be converted into alcohol by yeast without being broken down first.
What does “dry” mean with respect to a wine?
A wine with less residual sugar than a person can detect
What is RS
Residual sugar, or sugar remaining after fermentation, measured as a percentage or g/l.
What are three terms for phenolic compounds?
phenolics, polyphenols or polyphenolics
Name five phenolic compounds found in wine.
1) Anthocyanins
2) Flavonols
3) Tannins
4) Vanillin
5) Resveratrol
What characteristic do anthocyanins contribute to wine?
Color in red wine, ranging from blue to purple to red
Red wines with higher acidity appear more _____________.
Red
What color pigment do flavonols contribute to white wine and what causes them to increase?
a) Yellow
b) Sunshine
Name 4 places in which tannins can be found?
1) Seeds
2) Skins
3) Stems
4) Oak
Tannins are a natural _________________ that protect wine from _________________ during the aging process.
a) preservative
b) oxidation
What is the aromatic quality of Vanillin and where does it come from?
a) Vanilla
b) oak barrels
Vanillin _______________ with light levels of toast and __________________ with heavier levels of toast.
a) increases
b) decreases
What is resveratrol and where is it primarily found?
a) a compound with beneficial health effects
b) skins and seeds of grapes
What is polymerization and how does it pertain to wine?
Chains of molecules phenolic compounds such as tannins tend to form in bottle. Over time, the chains become too heavy and drop out of suspension, which changes the characters and sometimes increase the complexity of the wine with age
What are 4 additional components of wine?
1) Esters
2) Aldehydes
3) Dissolved gases
4) Sulfites
What is an aldehyde and what is the most common example of one?
a) the combination of an alcohol and oxygen
b) Acetaldehyde, common in Sherry
What are esters and what is a common example of one?
a) The combination of an acid and an alcohol
b) ethyl acetate, the combination of ethanol and acetic acid
What are two dissolved gases found in wine and where do they come from?
a) O2, the atmosphere, can cause oxidation
b) C02, fermentation, contributes petillance or carbonation
Why do all wines contain SOME trace of sulfites?
It’s a natural by-product of fermentation.
Wine containing greater than __________________ of sulfur dioxide must state “Contains Sulfites” on the label.
10 ppm
What causes “cork taint”?
Mold that interacts with other compounds and generates the compound 2,4,6-trichoroanisole, or TCA
How many bottles are thought to be affected by TCA and at what levels can it be detected?
a) 1-8%
b) 2-7 ppt
What effect does TCA have on wine?
Taste and aroma of moldy cardboard or wet dog
What are three sulfur-based causes of off-odors in wine?
1) SO2 - Sulfur Dioxide
2) H2S - Hydrogen Sulfide
3) Mercaptan
What effect does excess SO2 have on wine?
Odor of burnt match, burning sensation in the throat
How does pH relate to the perception of SO2?
The more acidic the wine, the greater the perception of SO2
What is the effect of excess H2S on wine?
Odor of rotten eggs
What causes excess of H2S in wine?
Absence of oxygen, sometimes prolonged contact with yeast sediment in barrel or tank
What is Mercaptan and how does it affect wine?
a) combination of sulfur and ethanol.
b) odor of garlic or onions
What are 5 off-odors in wine relating to bacteria?
1) acetic acid - vinegar
2) butyric acid - rancid butter
3) lactic acid - sauerkraut or goat
4) ethyl acetate - nail polish remover or glue
5) geranium fault - crushed geraniums
What is VA?
Volatile acidity, the pronounced aroma of white vinegar caused by acetic acid.
What is ascensence?
High VA combined with high ethyl acetate.
What is ethyl acetate?
An ester formed through the reaction of ethanol and acetic acid
What causes geranium fault?
The metabolism of sorbic acid (from the preservative potassium sorbate) during malolactic fermentation
What is Brett and what effect does it have on wine?
a) Short for Brettanomyces, a yeast found in and around wineries
b) sweaty, horsy, band-aid, medicinal odors
Why would a wine be described as “green”?
Odor of leaves, caused by young, underripe grapes
What is the effect of “oxidation” on wine?
Muted fruit character, browning; not always a flaw, can contribute a nutty, caramelized character
What does it mean if a wine is described as “maderized”?
Cooked or baked quality, caused by excess exposure to heat or oxygen
What causes a wine to smell “moldy” or “rubbery”?
a) presence of mold on grapes or barrels
b) low-acid, excess sulfur
What does “stagnant” mean with respect to wine?
Stale water odor
What does “stemmy” mean with respect to wine?
Bitter, green odor of grape stems
What causes the odor of “wet cardboard” in wine?
TCA or misuse of filter pads
Describe what is meant by “leesey” or “yeasty”?
Wine that’s rested on dead yeast too long; not considered a flaw in many sparkling wines
What does “reductive” mean and what is the effect on the wine?
a) absence of oxygen
b) struck match, cabbage, burned rubber
TO what genus do grapes belong?
Vitis
What species of grapes is used in widespread wine making?
Vitis Vinifera
Where do we believe Vinifera vines originated?
The Cacasus Mountain region
Name another important species of grape and describe what it’s best used for.
a) Vitis Labrusca
b) fresh grape juice
Name 3 other species of grapes.
Vitis riparia, aestivalis, rupestris
Define “species” and provide examples.
a) A genetically similar group of plants or animals that share broad characteristics and can reproduce sexually
b) vinifera, labrusca, riparia
Define “Variety” and give examples.
a) a subspecies
b) Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon
Define “Cross” and give examples.
a) the offspring of sexual reproduction between two varieties within the same species
b) Cabernet Sauvignon is a cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc
Define “clone” and give examples.
a) a plant such as a grape vine reproduced by vegetative propagation. Clones are genetically identical to the parent but sometimes develop their own characteristics
b) Pommard, Dijon, Wadenswil
Define “mutation” and give examples.
a grape that by successive adaptation develops characteristics unique enough to be considered a separate variety.
b) Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris
Define “hybrid” and give examples.
a) the result of sexual reproduction between two closely related species.
b) Seyval Blanc, Vidal, Baco Noir
What is the difference between international and indigenous varieties?
a) International varieties are known throughout the globe and can be grown successfully in a number of countries and climates; ex–Sauvignon Blanc
b) Indigenous grapes primarily thrive in a species region, generally from which they originated; ex–Nebbiolo
What are synonyms for indigenous?
Traditional, native, autochthonous
Define “autochthonous.”
indigenous grapes that are the result of natural cross-breeding or natural mutation in a specific area
Where is Chardonnay believe to have originated?
Burgundy region of France
Compare the fruit profile of Chardonnay from a cool climate to that from a warm one?
a) Cool - tart, fresh citrus, orchard
b) Ripe - stone, tropical
How is Chardonnay often aged?
Oak barrels
What countries/regions are known for Chardonnay production?
France, California, Australia
Why is Chenin Blanc considered one of the most versatile grapes?
Can be produced in a range of styles, from still to sparkling, bone dry to lusciously sweet
What are some aromas unique to Chenin Blanc?
Wet wool, chamomile tea, quince
What two regions are best known for Chenin Blanc production?
a) Loire Valley
b) South Africa
What dessert wines are Muscat known for?
a) Vin Doux Naturals in Southern France
b) Moscatels from Southern Spain
c) Rutherglen Stickies from Australia
Muscat is best known for which wines?
Moscato d’Asti and Asti Spumante
What regions are best known for Muscat production?
California, Asti/d’Asti, Southern France, Southern Spain, Rutherglen
What is the flavor profile of Muscat?
Orange blossom, grapes, musk
In general, how might wines labeled Pinot Grigio and Pinot Gris differ?
a) Pinot Grigio, med + alcohol, med - acid, neutral
b) Pinot Gris, med + acid, fuller bodied, med alcohol, some RS, almond, apple, pear
What regions are known for Pinot Grigio and Pino Gris production?
NE Italy, Alsace, Oregon, California
From where does Sauvignon Blanc originate?
France–particularly the Loire Valley and Bordeaux.
What New World region does Sauvignon Blanc show a particular affinity for?
New Zealand
What region is know for what tasting note in Sauvignon Blanc?
a) Flint
b) Gooseberry
c) Toast
a) Loire Valley
b) New Zealand
c) Bordeaux
What is Fume Blanc?
Technically synonymous with Sauvignon Blanc in the US, refers to a particular style created by Robert Mondavi in the 60s that is traditionally oak-aged.
Name three members of the Muscat family?
a) Muscat Blanc a Petits Grains
b) Muscat d’Alexandria
c) Muscat Ottonel
What sweet wine is made with Sauvignon Blanc?
Sauternes
What regions are known for Riesling production?
Germany, Alsace, California, Oregon, Finger Lakes, Canada, Australia
What tasting notes are unique to Riesling?
petrol, lime candy, tennis ball, plastic pool toy, rubber hose
What quality of Riesling makes it ideal for German production?
It’s ability to ripen in a marginal climate
What quality of Riesling lends itself to growth in multiple climates and styles?
It’s ability to retain its acidity in many different conditions.
Where does Riesling originate from?
Germany
What is one of the only regions known for producing wines from 100% Semillon?
Hunter Valley in Australia
Semillon is often blended with ______________ in Bordeaux and ______________ in Australia.
a) Sauvignon Blanc
b) Chardonnay
Name a unique marker for Semillon.
Wax
Which grape would have been considered indigenous a few years ago but is now popular in Australia, California, South America, Texas and East Coast US?
Viognier
Describe Viognier.
Rich, viscous, full-bodied, flowers, peach and tangerine
What are 2 other terms for Pinot Blanc?
a) Pinot Bianco
b) Weissburgunder
In which region is Pinot Blanc important and how might it differ from Pinot Gris?
a) Alsace
B) Lighter, more exotic
Where was Gewurztraminer first recovered and where is it most known today?
a) Italian Alps
b) Alsace
Describe the unique flavor profile of Gewurztraminer.
Flowers, spice, lychee, rose
What other name is Trebbiano Toscano known for and why is the variety commercially important?
a) Ugni Blanc
2) It’s the principle grape used in Brandy and balsamic vinegar production
What is the principle white grape in Argentina?
Torrontes Riojano
What is the principle white grape in Austria?
Gruner Veltliner
What are three secondary grape varieties in France–notably Northern Rhone and Burgundy?
Marsanne, Roussanne, Aligote
What is the principle white grape in Switzerland?
Chasselas
What is the principle white grape in Hungary?
Furmint
Besides Riesling, name two important white grapes in Germany.
Muller-Thurgau, Silvaner
Name the principal grape in Gavi?
Cortese
Name the principal grape in Soave?
Garganega
Name the principal grape in Prosecco?
Glera
Name three varieties from Italy beginning with V, and what region they’re most identified with.
a) Vermentino, Sardinia
b) Vernaccia, Tuscany
c) Verdicchio, Marche
Name three important white grapes in Greece?
a) Assyrtiko
b) Moschofilero
c) Rhoditis
What are the principle grapes in Cava production?
Xarel-lo, Macabeo, Parellada
What is Macabeo called in Rioja?
Viura
Name 3 important white grapes in Spain?
a) Albarino
b) Godello
c) Verdejo
Name two white grapes used in Sherry production?
a) Palomino
b) Pedro Ximinez
Name four white grapes from Portugal?
a) Alvarinho
b) Loureiro
c) Arinto
d) Fernao Pires
What is Cabernet Franc most known for?
Blending partner of Cabernet Franc and Merlot in Bordeaux
Name 5 places where Cabernet Franc thrives.
1) Loire Valley
2) Bordeaux
3) NE Italy
4) NY/Canada
5) California
Describe the flavor profile of Cabernet Franc.
Violets, red fruits, bell pepper, tea, tobacco or mushroom; med + acidity, med - tannins
Name 3 leading regions for Cabernet Sauvignon.
1) Bordeaux
2) Napa
3) Washington State
What is the most produced quality grape in the world?
Cabernet Sauvignon
Describe the flavor profile of Cabernet Sauvignon.
black fruit, sometimes eucalyptus or bell pepper, cedar box or tobacco; high alcohol and tannins
Compare Cabernet Sauvignon from a cool vs warm climate.
Cooler: high acid, med alcohol, some red fruit, more herbal
Warmer: med + acid, high alcohol, ripe black fruit
Cabernet Sauvignon is ________-ripening grape.
Late
What does GSM stand for and what is it?
a) Grenache-Syrah-Mourvedre
b) a blend popular in the Southern Rhone
In what climate does Grenache strive?
Hot, dry
Describe the profile of Grenache.
Red fruit, flowers, med acid, lower tannins, high alcohol
Name four regions known for Grenache production.
1) Southern Rhone
2) Priorat
3) Navarra (Rose)
4) Australia
How does Merlot generally compare to Cabernet Sauvignon?
Less tannic, less alcohol, fuller, softer mouthfeel
Describe the flavor profile of Merlot.
Blue fruit, black cherry, coffee, chocolate, med to med + tannins, alcohol, acid, full body
In what climate does Pinot Noir thrive?
Cool
Where is Pinot Noir thought to originate?
Burgundy, France
What are two other names for Pinot Noir?
Pinot Nero, Spatburgunder
What are three mutations of Pinot Noir?
1) Pinot Gris
2) Pinot Blanc
3) Pinot Meunier
Name 5 top regions for Pinot Noir.
1) Burgundy
2) Champagne
3) New Zealand
4) California
5) Oregon
Describe the flavor profile of Pinot Noir.
red cherry, cranberry, mushroom, forest floor, high acid, lower tannins
Name 3 regions known for Syrah.
Rhone Valley, Australia, Paso Robles
What other name is Syrah known by?
Shiraz
What might be the style differences between a Syrah from Northern Rhone and a Shiraz from Australia?
a) Rhone - black fruit, black olive, black pepper, lavender, smoked meat, med + tannin and alcohol, med acidity
b) Australia - jammy black fruit, eucalyptus, dried fruit, high tannins and alcohol, med - acidity
What two grapes is Zinfandel probably genetically identical to and who made the finding?
a) Primativo (Italy) and Tribidrag (Croatia)
b) Dr. Carole Meredith
Name a typical marker of Zinfandel?
Raisin
Name two markers for Sangiovese.
1) Sour cherry
2) Orange zest
In _____________, 100% Sangiovese could be used in _________________.
a) 1996
b) Chianti
What two native grapes is Sangiovese often blended with?
a) Colorino
b) Canaiolo Nero
Name two unique markers for Nebbiolo.
Tar and roses
What are two Portuguese synonyms for Tempranillo?
a) Tinta Roriz
b) Aragonez
What grape is Tempranillo often blended with in Rioja?
Mazuelo
Name two unique markers for Tempranillo?
Strawberry and dust–also coconut from American oak
Malbec is known as the __________ wine of _____________.
a) black
b) Cahors
What minor grape of Bordeaux found celebrity in Argentina?
Malbec
What is the technical term for Gamay?
Gamay Noir a Jus Blanc
What region is known for Gamay production?
Beaujolais
What are two unusual markers for Gamay?
Banana and bubblegum
Name three regions that grow small amounts of Gamay?
a) Loire Valley
b) the Maconnais
c) Switzerland
Which red grape is a “teinturier” and what does that mean?
a) Alicante Bouschet
b) it has red flesh as well as red skin
What is the Spanish name for Alicante Bouschet?
Garnacha Tintorera
Alicante Bouschet is a cross between ____________ and ________________.
a) Grenache
b) Petit Bouschet
Alicante Bouschet was first cultivated by _______________ in _______________.
a) Henri Bouschet
b) 1866
What grape is considered the lost grape of Bordeaux?
Carmenere
Carmenere has become the signature grape of _____________.
Chile
What highly tannic red grape is popular in Uraguay?
Tannat
What inky-colored, high alcohol red grapes is grown primarily in California?
Petit Sirah
What is Mourvedre called in Spain and Australia?
a) Monastrell
b) Mataro
What is considered a signature red grape of South Africa?
Pinotage
Name two popular red grapes from Portugal.
a) Touriga Nacional
b) Touriga Franca
Name three popular red grapes from Greece.
a) Agiorgitiko
b) Xinomavro
c) Mavrodaphne
Name two popular red grapes from Germany besides Spatburgunder.
a) Zweitgelt
b) Blaufrankish
