WSET3 Flashcards
When you see the words: Identify, Name or List
Give a brief statement of fact. This type of question is asking you to recall a fact same as multiple choice. (Answer should be 1 sentence).
When you see the word: Describe
Give a complete definition (Answer should be 2-3 sentences).
When you see the word: Explain
Describe how and why (Answer should be 4-6 sentences). first 2 sentences identify and describe the i.e. climate of a region, and explains how the climate affects the characteristics of the grapes. The last 2 sentences describe why grapes grown in said climate are suitable for the style of wine produced.
What type of wine should you pair with sweet food?
Since sweet food can dull the taste of a wine (losing its fruit and becoming unpleasantly acidic), a good general rule is to select a wine with a higher level of sweetness.
What effect does sweet food have on wine?
The wine tastes more drying and bitter, more acidic. Less sweet and fruity.
What effect does umami food have on wine?
Increases the perception of bitterness, astringency, acidity and alcohol burn in the wine. It also decreases the perception of body, sweetness, and fruitiness of the wine.
What type of wine should you pair with umami food?
Pair with low tannin, lower alcohol red wines without (or limited) oak character. Crisp whites with minimal oak and lower alcohol also work well.
What effect does salty food have on wine?
Salt will increase the perception of body in a wine and decrease astringency, bitterness and acidity.
Salty food with make a tannic alcoholic red wine taste more …?
Fruity and rich (less bitter, less alcoholic)
What effect does acidic food have a wine?
Acid in food will increase the perception of body, sweetness, and fruitiness in wine. It will also decrease the perception of acid in a wine.
What type of wine should be paired with acidic food?
It’s a good rule of thumb to pair high acid food with high acid wine (as wines can appear flat and flabby if the acid of the wine is overwhelmed by the food).
What effect does bitter food have on wine?
Bitterness in food increases the bitterness in wine.
What effect does highly flavored food have on wine?
The wine can be overwhelmed by the food flavors.
What type of wine should be paired with highly flavored food?
Pair with wines of similar intensity or flavors.
What effect does fatty/oily food have on wine?
It makes the wine appear less acidic.
What type of wine should be paired with highly fatty/oily food?
Pair with wines of high levels of acidity.
When did the European Union change it’s wine laws?
2009
What are the two labelling terms of EU wines with a geographical indication?
- Protected Designation of Origen (PDO)
- Protected Geographical Indication (PGI)
What term is used to delineate a PDO wine from France?
Apellation d’Origine Controlee (AC or AOC)
What term is used to delineate a PGI wine in France?
Vin de Pays (VdP) or Indication Geographique Protegee (IGP). IGP has appeared on many wine labels beginning with the 2009 vintage.
What term is used to delineate a wine in France without any geographical indication?
Vin de France
What is the location and climate of Bordeaux?
Located in south-west France, Bordeaux has a moderate/maritime climate.
What type of soil is found in the Medoc, Haut-Medoc, and Graves regions (left bank) of Bordeaux?
Stone/Gravel
What type of soil is found in the St-Emilion and Pomeral regions (right bank) of Bordeaux?
Clay with limestone subsoil
What are the 6 main black grape varieties of Bordeaux (in order of most to least vineyard acreage)?
- Merlot
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Cabernet Franc
- Malbec
- Petit Verdot
- Carmenere
What are the 3 main white grapes of Bordeaux (in order of most to least vineyard acreage)?
- Semilion
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Muscadelle
Are there high or low density plantings in Bordeaux?
High density plantings
Do the higher quality wines of Bordeaux experience lower or higher yields?
Lower yields for higher quality wines
What are two key vineyard challenges in Bordeaux?
- Ripening grapes
- Fungal disease
What type of harvesting is used throughout Bordeaux?
Machine harvesting. The gentle sloping vineyards of Bordeaux are suitable for machines.
For what type of wine style is hand-harvesting required in Bordeaux?
Hand-picking is typical for grapes affected by noble rot used for sweet wine production (i.e. Sauternes, Barsac, etc)
For Bordeaux red winemaking, are the grape varieties fermented separately or together?
Grape varieties are fermented separately and blended after fermentation.
What is Bordeaux red wine typically matured in?
In wooden vats or in new or used oak barriques (225 liters)
In Bordeaux, how are inexpensive red wines typically produced?
They are made ready-to-drink with a high proportion of merlot in the blend, matured in a vat with no new oak.
In Bordeaux winemaking, how are higher-priced red wines typically produced?
Higher-priced wines use traditional fermentation and have a higher proportion of new oak for maturation; these wines will need maturing in bottle for several years.
How is dry Sauvignon Blanc typically aged in Bordeaux?
Typically, stainless steel for a short period of time so that it can retain the varietal characteristics.
Is oak ever used to mature white wine in Bordeaux?
Yes, oak is often used to ferment and/or mature blends of dry Semillon/Sauvignon Blanc wines (ie Pessac-Leognan). It is also used in the production of sweet wines of Bordeaux.
What types of wines are produced under the Generic Bordeaux AC?
red, white, and rose
What are the 4 famous regions producing red wines in the Haut-Medoc from north to south?
- St Estephe
- Pauillac
- St Julien
- Margaux
Name 4 appellations that can put their name in front of the term Cotes de Bordeaux for greater recognition.
- Blaye
- Cadillac
- Castillon
- Francs
What are 3 premium dry white wine regions of Bordeaux?
1.Entre-Deux-Mers
2.Graves
3.Pessac-Leognan
What are 2 sweet white wine regions of Bordeaux?
- Sauternes
- Barsac
What are the ideal conditions for longer term storage of wines that improve with age?
Undisturbed in a cool dark place with a constant temperature, ideally around 10-15 C (50-59 F). There should also be constant humidity, and wines sealed with a cork should be stored on their side.
What is the traditional type of wine press used and explain how it works.
Vertical ‘basket’ press where the pressure on the grapes comes from above using a plate that is lowered or raised using a screw or lever.
What is the climate of southwest France?
Similar to Bordeaux but with less maritime influence.
Name the major appellation in southwest France that produces a style of wine similar to Bordeaux.
Bergerac
What is the most important IGP in Southwest France?
Cotes de Gascogne IGP
Which AC wine is considered a Bordeaux copy for good value botrytised sweet wines made from semillon and Sauvignon Blanc?
Monbazillac (sweet white wine)
Which key region of southwest France makes a Malbec based red wine?
Cahors
Which key region of southwest France makes red wines from Tannat, Cab Franc, and Cab Sauv?
Madiran
Which key region of southwest France makes dry and, more importantly, sweet wines from Petit Manseng?
Jurançon
Describe the style of wine to be expected from the IGP Cotes de Gascogne.
Generally dry, light-bodied white wines made from Ugni Blanc with aromas and flavors of green apples.
What is the location and climate of Burgundy?
Located in Northeast France. Burgundy covers a wide area, the north is cool continental and the south is moderate continental
How does the climate of Chablis differ from the rest of Burgundy?
Farther north Chablis has a cool continental climate and is cooler that the moderate continental climate in the rest of Burgundy.
What are two major environmental hazards that vineyards face in Burgundy?
Frost and hail
What is “grey rot” and why is it an issue in Burgundy?
Grey rot is the malevolent form of Botrytis which affects unripe berries or black grapes; causing off flavors and a lack of color. The frequent summer rains in Burgundy make the area prone to grey rot.
What type of soil is found in Chablis?
Limestone overlaid with Kimmeridgian clay (sedimentary deposit of fossiliferous marine clay)
Name 7 regional appellations of Burgundy.
- Bourgogne Rouge
- Bourgogne Blanc
- Bourgogne Hautes Cotes de Nuits
- Bourgogne Hautes Cotes de Beaune
- Bourgogne Cote Chalonnaise
- Macon
- Macon Villages
What type of soil is found in Beaujolais?
Granite
What is the main black grape variety of Burgundy?
Pinot Noir
What is the main black grape variety of Beaujolais?
Gamay
What are the two main white grape varieties of northern burgundy?
Chardonnay and Aligote
What is the main white grape variety of southern Burgundy?
Chardonnay
Are there high lot density plantings in Northern Burgundy?
High
What type of pruning system is used on the vines of northern Burgundy?
Guyot
Topographically, where can the best vineyards of northern Burgundy be found?
Mid-slope on the east or southeast facing hillside vineyards
What type of pruning system is employed in Beaujolais?
Head trained Gobelet pruned vines
Where are the best vineyards found in Beaujolais?
On granite hillsides in the northern part of Beaujolais
Carbonic maceration is used in what part of Burgundy?
Beaujolais
Is oak maturation used for the red wines of Burgundy?
Yes, mid to high priced red wines go through a moderate use of oak maturation.
Is oak used to mature the white wines of Chablis?
Typically, stainless steel is used. Very little oak is used for Chablis AC wines. It is more likely to be seen with Grand Cru Chablis or even some Premier Grand Cru.
What natural factors influence the wine quality and differentiate the wines in the Cotes Chalonnaise from their famous northern neighbor?
The region lies to the south of the Cote d’Or where the higher altitude makes ripening less reliable.
What is considered to be the higher level of quality in Chablis: Premier or Grand Cru?
Grand Cru
What are the 7 vineyards that form Chablis Grand Cru AC?
- Les Clos
- Vaudesir
- Valmur
- Les Preuses
- Bougros
- Blanchot
- Grenouilles
What are the 7 key villages in the Cote de Beaune?
- Beaune
- Aloxe-Corton
- Pommard
- Volnay
- Meursault
- Puligny-Montrachet
- Chassagne-Montrachet
What are the 4 key villages of the Cote Chalonnaise?
- Mercurey
- Givry
- Rully
- Montagny
What two villages in the Cote de Beaune produce only red wine?
Volnay and Pommard
What are the 2 most famous village appellations of the Maconnais?
- Pouilly-Fuisse
- Saint-Veran
What are the 10 Beaujolais Crus from north to south?
- Saint Amour
- Julienas
- Chenas
- Moulin-a-Vent
- Fleurie
- Chiroubles
- Morgon
- Regnie
- Brouilly
- Cote de Brouilly
Regional Burgundian wines that do not qualify for higher AC must have what word in its title?
They must have Bourgogne in the title
What are the 4 classifications in Burgundy?
- Regional
- Commune
- Premier Cru
- Grand Cru
When is the term “Commune” used in Burgundy?
for wines from a single communes (villages)
For labelling of Premier Cru wines in Burgundy, does the village name come before or after the name of the vineyard?
Premier Cru wines of Burgundy must show the village names followed by the vineyard name on the label.
For Labelling Grand Cru wines in Burgundy, does the village name come before or after the name of the vineyard?
Only the vineyard name appears on the label of Grand Cru wines in Burgundy.
What is the location and climate of Alsace
Located in northeast France. Alsace has a sunny, dry cool to moderate continental climate.
Does Alsace experience heavy rainfall? Why or why not?
No, Alsace is protected from rain and wind from the Vosges Mountains; providing long, dry autumns.
What are the 4 noble varieties of Alsace (from most widely planted to least)?
- Riesling
- Gewurztraminer
- Pinot Gris
- Muscat
What is the only red variety allowed in Alsace?
Pinot Noir
Aside from the 4 noble grape varieties, what are 3 other important white varieties in Alsace?
- Pinot Blanc
- Sylvaner
- Auxerrois
Where are the best vineyards in Alsace located?
They lie on the steep east and southeast facing slopes of the foothills of the Vosges Mountains.
Can biodynamic farming be practiced in Alsace?
Yes, the low disease pressure in the sunny, dry conditions allows for this.
In Alsace, which maturation vessel is preferred? Why?
Wine producers in Alsace typically use stainless steel or large, very old casks to mature their wine. These inert vessels allow for the grapes varietal characteristics to be expressed/retained.
Is malolactic conversion ever used in Alsace?
With the exception of Pinot Blanc, malolactic conversion is generally not used because it can mask the pure fruit flavors.
What is an Edelzwicker?
An Alsatian wine made from a blend of grapes. The term translates into “noble blend.”
What is Gentil?
A blended wine from Alsace
How many Alsace Grand Cru’s are there?
51
What must be included on the label of an Alsace Grand Cru wine? Are the wines typically dry or sweet?
The label must state the vineyard, the vintage and, where appropriate, the grape variety. Produced from a single noble grape (Riesling, Gewürztraminer or Pinot Gris). The wines are dry to off dry.
What is a Vendage Tardive?
A late harvest wine made in Alsace. Only the noble varieties are permitted.
What is a Selection de Grains Nobles?
A sweet wine from Alsace made from grapes affected by noble rot. They can only be made from the noble varieties of Alsace.
What differentiates Alsace from other French wine regions?
The wines are typically varietally labelled.
What is the location and climate of the Loire Valley?
Located in northwest France, the Loire experiences 3 different types of climates:
1. Nantais and Anjou = Cool Maritime
2. Touraine and Central Vineyards = Cool maritime with an increasing Continental influence
3. Central Vineyards = Continental
Do weather patterns vary or stay consistent throughout the Loire Valley?
Because of the length of the river, there are significant variations in weather patterns in the Loire Valley. Variations in the weather from year to year can mean that vintages differ wildly.
What are the 4 subregions of the Loire Valley?
- Nantais
- Anjou-Samur
- Touraine
- Central Vineyards
What is the general style of Savennieres and what is the main climatic influence creating this style?
Dry, full bodied Chenin Blanc wines. Air circulation around the well exposed vineyards impedes noble rot but enables late harvest Chenin Blanc for full bodied, complex dry wines that can age for decades.
What are the 2 key red grape varieties of Anjou-Samur?
Cabernet Franc and Gamay
What red grape varieties are used for rose wines in Anjou-Samur?
- Cabernet Franc/Sauvignon
- Gamay
- Grolleau
What is the key white grape variety of Anjou-Samur?
Chenin Blanc
What is the key red grape of Touraine?
Cabernet Franc
What are the 2 key white grapes of Touraine?
Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc
What are 2 key grapes of the Central Vineyards?
Red = Pinot Noir and White = Sauvignon Blanc
What two wine regions famously require hand-picked grapes?
Champagne and Beaujolais both require whole bunches; Beaujolais for carbonic maceration, Champagne to minimize oxidation and color.
Define “Passerillage”
Allowing grapes to shrivel on the vine, resulting in a concentration of sugars and flavors.
Which two methods of production are used to make sweet wines in the Loire?
- Noble rot
- Passerillage
Is oak used to mature red wine from the Loire?
Yes, there is some use of oak fro Cabernet Franc
Which grape is carbonic maceration commonly associated with in France?
Gamay in Beaujolais
Is oak used for white wine maturation in the Loire?
Very little oak is used nd neutral vessels are preferred.
Describe the production process of Muscadet sur Lie. What region does it come from?
Muscadet sur Lie comes from the Nantais region of the Loire Valley. It is a wine bottled directly from the tank or cask after having been aged, on its fine lees (yeast sediment) over the winter months. It is largely domaine bottled and, because it is handled very little, should retain its delicacy and freshness.
Name 2 key wines from the Nantais?
- Muscadet
- Muscadet Serve et Maine sur Lie
Name 4 key wined from Anjou-Samur?
- Anjou
- Samur
- Coteaux du Layon
- Savennieres
Name 4 key wines from Touraine?
- Touraine
- Vouvray
- Chinon
- Bourgueil
Name 3 key wines from the Central Vineyards of the Loire?
- Sancerre
- Pouilly-Fume
- Menetou-Salon
What is the name of the IGP that covers the entire Loire Valley region?
Val de Loire IGP covers the entire Loire Valley
What are the 2 key grape varieties of Anjou AC? What other varieties are also seen in the region?
- Chenin Blanc
- Cabernet Franc
Grolleau and Gamay are also seen in Anjou AC
What are the key grapes of the Samur AC?
- Chenin Blanc
- Cabernet Franc
What type of wine comes from the Coteaux du Layon?
A sweet wine made from Chenin Blanc; possessing a fresh fruit character and mouth watering acidity. The alcohol is usually around 12-14% and botrytis can be present (to a greater or lesser extent) helping to add body and texture.
What 2 sites have their own appellations within the Coteaux du Layon and rank among the world’s greatest sweet wines?
- Quarts de Chaume AC
- Bonnezeaux AC
Savennieres is produced from which grape variety?
Chenin Blanc
What grape is used in the key AC wines from the Nantais?
Melon Blanc (aka Melon de Bourgogne, aka Muscadet)
What is the main grape in Sancerre?
Sauvignon Blanc
What is the main grape in Menetou-Salon?
Sauvignon Blanc
What is the main grape of Pouilly-Fume?
Sauvignon Blanc
What are the 5 main grapes in Touraine AC?
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Chenin Blanc
- Cabernet Franc
- Gamay
- Malbec
What is the main grape in Vouvray?
Chenin Blanc
What is the main grape in the Chinon and Bourgueil ACs?
Cabernet Franc
What is the location and climate of the Rhone Valley?
Southeast France, the Rhone Valley experiences two different climates. In the north, it is moderate to warm continental. In the south, it is warm mediterranean.
What environmental factor in the southern Rhone has a cooling effect but can also damage vines?
The Mistral wind
What is the only red grape permitted in the northern Rhone?
Syrah
What are the 3 white grapes permitted in the northern Rhone?
- Viognier
- Marsanne
- Roussanne
What are the 4 main red grapes of the Southern Rhone?
- Grenache
- Syrah
- Mourvedre
- Cinsault
What are the 2 main white grapes of the southern Rhone?
Grenache Blanc and Clairette
what is the topography of the northern Rhone? Where are the best Vineyards Located?
The valley is quite narrow and steep in the northern Rhone with the best vineyards planted on steep slopes with a south facing aspect located close to the river.
Where are vineyards planted on flatter terrain? IN the northern or southern Rhone?
In the southern Rhone
Are the soils more varied in northern or southern Rhone?
Southern Rhone
What type of pruning method is used in the southern Rhone for Grenache? is the same system employed for Syrah?
For the most part, Grenache is bush trained and the shoots that hang down offer extra shade for the grapes in the hot, dry climate. The low training also offers protection from the Mistral wind and benefits from warmth radiated from the soil. Syrah is susceptible to wind damage and benefits from the support offered by guyot pruning and wire or stake training.
Why are windbreaks planted in the southern Rhone?
Unlike northern Rhone, the vineyards of the south have fewer slopes to protect from the Mistral wind. These winds gain speed in this area and can cause extensive damage to the vineyards.
What is the most widely planted grape of the southern Rhone?
Grenache
Is carbonic maceration employed in the Rhone Valley?
Yes, for the lighter styles of wine, carbonic maceration is used in the production of some Cotes-du-Rhone wines of the south.
Is new oak ever used in winemaking of Rhone valley wines?
New oak is being used more and more in the northern Rhone. New oak has a tendency to overwhelm the more delicate flavors of Grenache and thus is not used as much in the southern Rhone.
What are the 6 key wine regions of the Northern Rhone (from north to south)?
- Cote Rotie (red)
- Condrieu (White)
- Saint Joseph (red/white)
- Hermitage (red/white)
- Crozes-Hermitage (red/white)
- Cornas (red)
What are the 7 key wine regions of the southern Rhone?
- Cotes du Rhone (red/white/rose)
- Cotes du Rhone Villages (red/white/rose)
- Vacqueyras (red)
- Gigondas (red)
- Chateauneuf-du-Pape (red/white)
- Lirac (red/rose)
- Tavel (rose)
What is the only permitted red grape in Cote Rotie?
Syrah
Does Cote Rotie require 100% Syrah?
No, although only red wines can be produced in this region (from the Syrah grape) up to 20% Viognier is allowed to be co-fermented with Syrah.
Wines from Condrieu must be made solely from what grape?
Viognier
What is the red grape in Saint- Joseph?
Syrah
What are the 2 white grapes permitted in Saint-Joseph?
Marsanne and Roussanne
What is the red grape permitted in Crozes-Hermitage?
Syrah
What are the 2 white grapes permitted in Crozes-Hermitage?
Marsanne and Roussanne
What is the red grape of Hermitage?
Syrah
What are the 2 white grapes permitted in Hermitage?
Marsanne and Roussanne
What is the red grape permitted in Cornas?
Syrah
What Rhone valley region does Chateau Grillet AC fall under? What types of wines does it produce?
Chateau Grillet AC is a single property enclave within Condrieu producing white wines made solely from Viognier.
Which red wine is considered to be the fullest bodied of the northern Rhone reds and is known to age well?
Red Hermitage; the greatest of these may last for 50 years or more.
What is the most important region of the Northern Rhone in terms of volume?
Crozes-Hermitage
Which region of the northern Rhone can only produce wines made from 100% Syrah?
Cornas
What are the 3 most expensive regions in the Northern Rhone?
- Cote Rotie
- Condrieu
- Hermitage
What are the 3 main red grapes in Cotes-du-Rhone?
Grenache, syrah and mourvedre
What are the 2 main white grapes in Cotes-du-Rhone Villages?
Clairette and Grenache Blanc
What appellation in the Rhone is responsible for more than half of the entire production of the region?
Cotes-du-Rhone AC accounts for more than half of the entire production of the Rhone, most of which is red wine.
What are the 2 main grapes used for rose in Cotes-du-Rhone, Cotes-du-Rhone Villages, Lirac, and Tavel?
Cinsault and Grenache
What is the main grape of Vacqueyras and Gigondas?
Grenache
Are Vacqueyras and Gigondas allowed to use grapes other than Grenache in the production of their red wines?
Yes, they are allowed to use Syrah, Mourvedre, Cinsault, and others. They are made in a similar full-bodied, spicy style of Chateauneuf du Pape.
What is the main red Grape of Chateauneuf du Pape?
Grenache
Which 2 southern Rhone Crus are located on the west bank of the Rhone River?
Lirac and Tavel
Which key region of the southern Rhone can only produce rose wines? What are the 2 grapes mainly used?
Tavel which uses Cinsault and Grenache mainly in their roses (other grapes are allowed).
What is the climate of southern France?
Warm Mediterranean (mitigated by altitude)
True or False: Southern France has the largest vineyard area in France.
True
Does Southern France have more plantings dedicated to red or white grapes?
red varieties account for well over 75% of plantings.
What are the top 3 red grapes grown in southern France?
- Grenache
- Syrah
- Carignan
What are the top 2 white varieties planted in southern France?
Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc
What are the 3 main regions that make up southern France?
- Languedoc
- Roussillon
- Provence
What area lies east of the Rhone and extends to the Italian Border?
Provence
What areas lie west of the Rhone and extends to the Spanish border?
Languedoc and Roussillon
What 2 environmental factors can have a cooling influence but, can also damage the vines of southern France?
Both the Mistral and Tramontane winds.
Where are the best vineyards of southern France located?
Vineyards planted inland in the foothills are noticeably cooler and have less fertile, well-drained soils that better suit quality viticulture.
What is the biggest viticultural challenge in southern France?
Drought
True or False? Fungal disease is very prevalent in southern France.
False; Fungal disease is less of a problem in southern France than anywhere else in the country because of the dry climate conditions.
True or False? The focus of production in the south of France has long since moved from large volumes of poor quality Vin de Table to higher quality Vin de Pays (IGP) and AC wines.
True; Nevertheless, it continues to be in a state of flux. Producers who have been able to invest in modern equipment and techniques have achieved a dramatic increase in quality.
Describe the landscape of Provence.
Varied, and broken up by many prominent ranges of hills which offer protection from the Mistral.
Which is the largest appellation in Provence?
Cotes de Provence
What AC in southern France produces premium full-bodied red wines based on the Mourvedre grape?
Bandol AC
What are the 8 key wine regions of Languedoc and Roussillon?
- Languedoc AC (red/white/rose)
- Minervois AC (red/white/rose)
- Corbieres AC (red/white/rose)
- Fitou AC (red)
- Cotes du Roussillon AC (red/white/rose)
- Cotes du Roussillon Villages AC (red)
- Pays d’Oc IGP (red/white/rose)
- Picpoul de Pinet (white)
What are the 4 main red grapes of Languedoc AC?
- Carignan
- Grenache
- Syrah
- Mourvedre
Describe the attributes of the best red wines of the Languedoc AC.
Full-bodied with concentrated spicy red fruits with oak flavors.
True or False? Wines made in Roussillon can be labelled under the generic appellation of Languedoc AC?
True; Languedoc AC is a generic appellation that covers all vineyards from the Spanish border to Nimes which includes both Languedoc and Roussillon.
What majority of the wines from the south of France come from what 3 departments?
Aude, Herault and Gard
What are the 4 main red grapes of Corbieres AC?
- Carignan
- Grenache
- Syrah
- Mourvedre
Does Corbieres cover warm sites near the coast or vineyards planted at altitude?
Both. The region is sub-divided into 11 sub-regions, the best of which is Boutenac AC.
What are the 4 main grapes of Fitou AC?
- Carignan
- Grenache
- Syrah
- Mourvedre
What contributes to the success of IGP Pays d’Oc wines?
- Wider range of varieties allowed
- Varietal labelling
- Warm, sunny climate allowing for large volumes of ripe, fruity wines
What are the most widely planted LOCAL white varieties of Southern France?
Muscat and Grenache Blanc
What is the climate of Germany?
cool/moderate continental
What 2 environmental factors can cause problems in Germany?
Spring frosts and summer rain
Does Germany have the weather conditions necessary for the development of noble rot?
Yes, Humidity in the autumn can help promote noble rot
In Germany, are weather patterns typically consistent or varied from year to year?
Conditions can vary considerably from year to year in Germany
Does Germany have a long or short ripening season? How does this impact the flavor profile of the grapes?
Germany has a long cool ripening period which gives grapes time to develop a good level of natural sugar while retaining their acidity.
In the Mosel, where are the best Einzellagen located? What type of soil do they have?
The best Einzellagen (single vineyards) lie close to the river and are planted on very steep slopes with a south facing aspect. Stony slate soils play a vital role in storing and radiating heat back up to the vine, extending ripening. These soils are also well draining.
In Germany, do white or red grapes account for more plantings?
White grapes account for more plantings. Largely because of climate, white grapes account for just over 60% of the plantings.
In Germany, which 2 grapes account for well over half of all white plantings?
riesling and Muller-Thurgau (Rivaner)
In Germany, what is a synonym for Muller-Thurgau?
Rivaner
Which grape is a cross between Riesling and Madeleine Royal?
Muller-Thurgau (Rivaner)
What are the top 5 white grapes in Germany?
- Riesling
- Muller-Thurgau (Rivaner)
- Silvaner
- Grauburgunder/Rulander (Pinot Gris)
- Weissburgunder (Pinot Blanc)
What is a synonym for Grauburgunder?
Pinot Gris (and Ruländer)
What is a synonym for Weissburgunder?
Pinot Blanc
What are the top 2 red grapes of Germany?
Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir) and Dornfelder
What is a synonym for Spätburgunder?
Pinot Noir
Where are the best vineyards of Germany located?
The best vineyard sites are often located on very steep south facing slopes in the proximity of a river.
Why is harvesting in Germany a protracted process?
Grapes for different Pradikatswein are picked at different levels of sugar ripeness and/or botrytis infection. Often the vineyard workers will do up to seven selective pickings for the different levels of each vintage.
Name the 7 key wine regions of Germany from north to south?
- Mosel
- Rheingau
- Nahe
- Franken
- Rheinhessen
- Pfalz
- Baden
What is the key village of the Nahe? What type of wines is produced there?
Schlossbockelheim
Riesling is the most widely planted variety, and it can be made in a style that lies in between that of the Mosel and the fuller bodies Rhine wines. They have pronounced acidity of the Mosel, yet they can have a slightly riper fruit character as the climate is warmer in the Nahe.
What are the 3 key Villages in the Rheingau? What type of wines are produced here?
- Rüdesheim (west)
- Johannisberg (west)
- Hochheim (east)
Riesling dominates plantings and more than 80% of the wines are made in a dry style. They have a medium to full body with a ripe peach character. Humid conditions generated by the Rhine means that some of Germany’s best BA and TBA wines.
What is Germany’s largest vine-growing region?
Rheinhessen
What is the key village of the Rheinhessen? What are the vineyards often referred to as? What type of wines are produced?
Nierstein
These vineyards are often referred to as the Rheinterrasse and produce some of the fullest bodied Rieslings in Germany.
What are the 2 key villages of the Pfalz? What type of wines are produced here?
- Forst
- Deidesheim
Riesling is the most widely planted grape, and the style here is ripe and fuller bodied. Muller-Thurgau is grown and plantings of Grauburgunder and Weissburgunder are increasing. Dornfelder is the second most planted grape (of either color) with other black plantings including: Portugieser and Spatburgunder.
What is the key village of Baden? What is the top quality wine of the region?
Kaiserstuhl-Tuniberg
An extinct volcano, the vineyards are on south-facing slopes and make the most of the available warmth. The area has built up a reputation for the top quality Spätburgunder.
What is the key village of Franken? What type of wines are produced here?
Würzburg
Silvaner can achieve a concentration in Franken that is rarely achieved elsewhere in Germany. Silvaner and Muller-Thurgau are the most widely planted as Riesling used to struggle to ripen well here.
What type of wines does the Mittelrhein produce? In what region is it found?
The Mittelrhein produces light bodied dry rieslings in the Ahr region.
In which 2 regions is Spatburgunder particularly important in Germany?
Pfalz and Baden
What are the 6 levels or ripeness (from lowest to highest) of Germany’s Pradikatswein?
- Kabinett
- Spatlese
- Auslese
- Beerenauslese
- Eiswein
- Trockenbeerenauslese
What are the 3 requirements of a German QbA wine?
- Grapes must be grown exclusively in one of the 13 Anbaugebiete/region (blending regions is forbidden)
- Label must show the region it comes from
- Label must give and indication of style
What are 3 key differences between QbA and Pradikatswein?
- QbA minimum permitted must weights are lower than those required for Pradikatswein
- QbA wines are allowed to undergo must enrichment; Pradikatsweins are not (although they can be sweetened with Sussreserve).
- Pradikatswein must come from a single anbaugebiet as well as a single Bereich (a District) within that Anbaugebiet) whereas QbA must come from a single Anbaugebiet only.
What is the name of German PGI wine category?
Landwein
What is Deutscher Wein?
the term for a wine without a GI in Germany (replacing Deutscher Tafelwein) allowing for blending across Germany. Some large-volume, inexpensive export brands fall into this category.
Define Bereich
a district within a German Anbaugebiet
Define Grosslage
a group of vineyards in Germany
Define einzellage
a single vineyard in Germany
Define Trocken
German term for dry
Define Halbtrocken
German term for off-dry
Are the vast majority of wines produced in Germany Labelled landwein?
no, the vast majority of wines produced in Germany are PDO wines
If Germany’s Trockenbeerenauslese wines must be sweet, why is the word trocken, which means dry in the name?
The grapes, not the wine, are dry; they are affected with botrytis so that the grapes are shriveled
Define Erstes Gewachs
A term used in the Rheingau to refer to the dry wines made from Erste Lage sites. In all other areas, these dry wines from Erste Lage sites are known as “Grosses Gewachs.”
Define Erste Lage
The best vineyard sites defined by the VDP (a prestigious association of self-elected best producers throughout Germany)
What is the climate of Austria?
Moderate Continental
In Germany, is a Kabinett wine a Qualitatswein or Pradikatswein? what about in Austria?
In Germany Kabinett is a Pradikatswein; however, in Austria, it is a Qualitatswein
Why are many areas of Austria marked with a high diurnal range?
The more northerly regions can experience cooling northerly winds whereas those closest to the Hungarian Border are warmed by the easterly winds. These help contribute to the wide variations of temperature throughout the day.
Is the autumn ripening season of Austria short or long?
Long; because of this, noble rot is possible if humidity levels are sufficient.
What is the most widely planted red grape in Austria?
Zweigelt
What red grape is a cross between Blaufrankisch and St. Laurent?
Zweigelt
What are the 3 key white grapes in Austria?
Gruner Veltliner, Welschriesling and Riesling
What are the 3 key red grapes in Austria?
Zweigelt, Blaufrankish and St. Laurent
Where are Austria’s best vineyards?
on steep south facing slopes
What area of Austria is capable of consistently producing botrytis affected wines?
The flat low-lying vineyards around the Neusiedlersee experience regular and heavy botrytis infection
Is oak often used in Austrian winemaking?
For white wines, there is some use; however, the focus is on the purity of fruit. for premium red wines, oak is often used
Mittelburgenland is a DAC for what grape?
Blaufrankish
What are the 2 key wine regions of the Neiderosterreich?
Wachau (white) and Weinviertel (white)
What are the 2 main grapes used in the Wachau, Kamptal, and Kremstal wines? what region do they reside in?
The regions reside in Niederosterreich and produce white wines from: Gruner Veltliner and Riesling
What is the main grape in Weinviertel?
Gruner Veltliner
What are the names of what are called the 4 federal states of Austria for PDO wines?
- Niederosterreich
- Burgenland
- Steiermark
- Wien
Which DAC was the first in Austria?
Weinviertel DAC for Gruner Veltliner
What 2 Pradikatswein categories are recognized in Austria but not Germany?
Strohwein and Ausbruch
What is Ausbruch?
A Pradikatswein category of Austria. It is situated between Beerenauslese and Trockenbeerenauslese in requirements, which makes it a sweet dessert wine typically made from botrytis grapes.
What is Strohwein?
Strohwein or Schilfwein is an Austrian wine term in the Pradikatswein category which designates a straw wine, a sweet dessert wine made from raisin-like dried grapes. Stroh is German for straw, Schilf means reed.
What is the Districtus Austriae Controllatus (DAC)?
A category developed by Austria to capture the concept of regional styles. If the producers in one of the specified appellations can agree on (1) a grape variety or varieties (2) a style of wine that best expresses their region, and (3) a set of regulations, then it can be awarded DAC status.
Which of Austria’s subregions has chosen not to become a DAC but instead has its own classification system?
Wachau
What are PGI wines referred to as in Austria?
Landwein
What are wines without a geographical indication referred to as in Austria?
Wein
What is the climate of Hungary?
Moderate continental
Where can the best vineyards in Hungary be found?
The best vineyards have a southerly aspect and are located on slopes
What 3 grape varieties are used for the sweet Tokaji wines of Hungary?
Furmint, Harslevelu, and Sarga Muscotaly (Muscat Blanc a Petits Grains)
Describe the taste profile of Furmint.
Furmint makes concentrated, high acid white wines with flavors of apples when young, developing into nuts and honey with age. It makes premium dry whites but is late ripening and susceptible to botrytis–both of which make it a principal grape used for sweet Aszú wines.
Which grape variety is aromatic, with flavors of orange blossom, and is the 3rd most important variety used for Tokaji wines?
Sarga Muscotaly (Muscat Blanc)
What is the minimum residual sugar level for Tokaji Aszu wines?
120 g/l; a figure that was raised in 2013, causing the discontinuance of 3 and 4 puttonyos categories.
Has the wine category Tokaji Eszencia been abolished with the revised laws of 2013?
No, the category Aszu Eszencia was abolished, but Tokaji Eszencia still exists for wines made from the free run juice of aszu grapes
Which of Austria’s black grapes is the most highly regarded?
Blaufrankisch which produces wines with med tannins, high acidity and a peppery, sour cherry flavor
what are the names of the 2 rivers in Tokaj which help generate morning humidity necessary for noble rot?
Bodrog and Tisza
Which 2 countries base their top PDO wines on ripeness of the grapes at harvest?
Germany and Austria
Describe the winemaking process of Tokaji Aszu
Winemakers start with a base wine using the same grapes as for tokaji Aszu. Before, during or after fermentation, the aszu berries are macerated in the base wine for 12-60 hours. The mixture is then pressed and the wine matured in oak for a period of time.
What might you expect from a modern style of Tokaji wine?
Wines are made from late harvest grapes, although some may be affected by botrytis. When noble rot is present, the botrytized grapes are fermented rather than macerated as with tokaji aszu.
When harvesting for Tokaji, which 3 categories do pickers separate the grapes into?
- Aszu
- Szamorodni
- Healthy grapes (unaffected by noble rot)
What does “Aszu” translate to?
“Rotten” used to describe grapes affected by noble rot
What does “Szamorodni” translate to?
“As it comes” referring to Tokaji selection. If only a few berries in the bunch are affected by botrytis, the whole bunch is picked and used to create a partial botrytis style wine.
What is the most common grape variety used to make non-botrytis dry wines of Hungary?
Furmint (most widely planted)
Tokaji Szamorodni must be aged for how long?
It must be aged in cask for a minimum of 6 months and be released from the winery from the January in the second year after harvest.
Do Tokaji Aszu wines see oak aging?
Yes, they are aged for a period of time in oak. The new laws in 2013 require shorter aging: minimum 18 months in oak, and the wines can be released in the January of the third year after harvest.
If the Tokaji sweet wine laws have changed with the 2013 laws, why would a certified wine student need to know about the traditional laws that were replaced?
It is still essential to be aware of wines made to the traditional laws (vintages up to and including 2012) since they will be on the market for many years.
What is the color and taste profile of classic Tokaji Aszu?
Classic Tokaji is deep amber, with high acidity and intense aromas, and flavors of orange peel, apricots, and honey. The best wines have further complexities that hint at rye bread, smoke, and caramel.
Which Hungarian wine has must that is so sweet, it can take years to ferment?
Tokaji Eszencia; even after all the time it takes to ferment, the wines remain very ow in alcohol (usually less than 5%)
What are the minimum levels of residual sugar for each puttonyos level?
5 puttonyos = 120 g/l
6 puttonyos = 150 g/l
What is the climate of Greece?
Hot Mediterranean
What is then main environmental concern of Greece? Is this more of a concern on the eastern or western side of Greece?
Drought is of particular concern of eastern Greece as it lies in the rain shadow of the mountains and thus little water is available for irrigation.
Santorini has what type of soils?
Volcanic soils
What are the top 2 red grapes in Greece?
Xinomavro and Agiorgitiko
Which red grape of Greece is often compared to Nebbiolo?
Xinomavro
Describe the taste profile of Xinomavro.
High in tannin and acid and with a medium color that quickly fades to tawny. They tend to lack a significant fresh fruit aroma even in youth. As with Nebbiolo, they are long lived and can develop complex spice and early aromas with age.
In Greece, which red grape is best suited for rose production?
Agiorgitiko
In Greece, what is the key white grape?
Assyrtiko
In addition to PDO, what other term may be seen on Greek labels for wines for export?
Appellation d’origine de qualite superieure
Nemea falls into what bigger area of Greece?
The Peloponnese
In which of Greece’s top red wines would you find these Characteristics: deep ruby color, high but smooth tannins, low to moderate acidity, sweet spice and red fruit flavors.
Agiorgitiko from Nemea PDO
What major climate condition would you expect to find on Santorini which effects the way the vines are trained?
Santorini is extremely windy so a unique training method is employed: the permanent wood is trained in a low basket weave shape to protect the grapes grown on the inside. The vines are somtimes planted in small hollows to provide extra protection from the wind and help ensure the vines make the best use of very limited rainfall.
What are the 3 key OPAP wine regions?
- Naoussa (Macedonia)
- Nemea (Peloponnese)
- Santorini (Island)
What is the grape used exclusively in Naoussa OPAP?
Xinomavro
What is the grape used exclusively in Nemea OPAP?
Agiorgitiko
Which OPAP covers red and white wines made in dry and sweet styles but has a reputation founded on wines principally made from Assyrtiko?
Santorini OPAP
Which Greek grape is used to make dry wines with perfumed aromas and concentrated flavors of ripe citrus and stone fruit balanced by naturally high acidity?
Assyrtiko
Which OPAP requires that 85% of grapes be Moschofilero to make their wines?
Mantinia OPAP
Which wine category is principally used to accommodate the ancient wine style Retsina?
OKP
Why is OKP unlike and other PGI wine?
It is unlike any other PGI wine as it deals with a style of wine that can be made anywhere in Greece, Retsina
Where are the best vineyards in Greece Located?
In sites cooled by altitude or proximity to the sea
What vine training system is employed by most vineyards in Greece? Why?
Most vineyards in Greece are spur pruned and head trained, this helps offer the grapes some protection from the summer heat. However, many forward-looking producers are switching to cordon trained VSP.
True or false? Wines in Greece are often labelled in other languages to accommodate export market consumers unfamiliar with the greek alphabet.
True
What is the climate of Italy?
Mediterranean: Cooler in the north and hot in the south
What is the name of the complex trellising system that was traditionally used in northern Italy?
Pergola: Canopy trained high to protect grapes from sunburn and allow air circulation.
What is the main weather related threat to Pienmonte and the Veneto?
Hail
Describe the marine soils of Italy. What Italian grape varieties favor this soil type?
Marine soil = Clay over limestone mix (also seen in Burgundy) is responsible for mot of Italy’s enduring reds including Valpolicella, Barolo, Barbaresco, and Chianti. White varieties such as Cortese, Verdicchio, and the aromatic whites of Trentino also thrive in Limestone rich soils.
Which 4 DOCGs are situated on the slopes of ancient volcanoes; taking advantage of the volcanic soils present?
- Soave DOCG
- Valpolicella DOCG
- Etna DOCG
What mountain range runs the length of the Italian Peninsula?
The Apennine Mountains
Which 3 DOCs lie on the broad plain north of the Adriatic and enjoy alluvial soils?
- Piave DOC
- Aquilei DOC
- Isonzo DOC
Are Italian Vineyards mainly located on hills or in valleys?
Grape growing in Italy is centered around hillside locations. The Romans planted exclusively on slopes and today, with the exception of areas of the Po river plains, southern Puglia, the Maremma and southern Sicily, Italian viticulture is still defined by its mountains.
Is the high trellising system known as pergola becoming increasingly or less widespread in Italy? Why or why not?
High trained pergola vines are less widespread now as the best producers look to limit yields and improve levels of ripeness, particularly physiological, as so many of native Italian black grapes are high in tannin.
Define “alberello” vineyard
Alberello is the Italian word for bush-trained. Southern Puglia and Sicily both employ the alberello approach.
What vine training system is used throughout most of Italy?
Most of Italy uses some variation of classic, two wire VSP trellising, including both single and double replacement cane and single cordon
What is the passito winemaking process?
Wines made from dried grapes (picked and dried off the vine) as the usually dry autumns discourage noble rot. This process is known as passito.
What is an example of a dry passito wine? What is an example of a sweet passito wine?
Dry = Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG
Sweet = Recioto della Valpolicella DOCG
What were Italian red wines traditionally aged in?
Traditional red winemaking involved long periods of maturation in large old wood casks called “bottle”. These wines could have a marked oxidative character.
What are the 9 key wine regions of Piemonte?
- Barolo DOCG
- Barbaresco DOCG
- Langhe
- Barbera d’Asti DOC
- Dolcetto d’Alba DOC
- Dogliani DOCG
- Roero DOCG
- Roero Arneis DOCG
- Gavi DOCG
What 2 key wine regions of Piemonte only produce white wines? What is the key grape variety in each?
- Roero Arneis DOCG - Arneis
- Gavi DOCG - Cortese
What 4 key wine regions of Piemonte produce wines from Nebbiolo?
- Barolo DOCG
- Barbaresco DOCG
- Langhe
- Roero DOCG
Which key DOCG wine region of Piemonte produces wine from Barbera?
Barbera d’Asti DOCG
Which 2 key wine regions of Piemonte produce wine from Dolcetto?
- Dolcetto d’Alba DOC
- Dogliani DOCG
What are the 2 key wine regions of Trentino-Alto Adige?
- Alto Adige (Sudtirol)
- Trentino
Which Italian region has the highest proportion of DOC production in Italy?
Alto Adige (Sudtirol)
What are the 2 main red grapes in Alto Adige?
Schiava and Lagrein
What are the main white grapes of Alto Adige?
Pinot Grigio, Gewurztraminer, Chardonnay, and Pinot Blanc
What is the key red grape variety in Trentino?
Teroldego
What is the key white grape in Trentino?
Pinot Grigio
Which DOC is the most important in terms of quantity in the Fruili-Venezia Giulia?
Grave del Fruili DOC
Which DOC makes light Bordeaux blends from Refosco, Merlot, Cab Franc and Cab Sauv?
Grave del Fuili DOC
What are the 2 key wine regions in Fruili-Venezia Giulia?
Friuli Grave and Collio
What are the 2 main grapes of Collio? Do they make red or white wines?
Tocai Friulano and Pinot Gris - White wines
What are the 2 main white grapes of Friuli Grave?
Tocai Friulano and Pinot Gris
What are the 6 key wine regions of the Veneto?
- Valpolicella DOC (red)
- Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG (Red)
- Recioto della Valpolicella DOCG (red)
- Soave DOC (white)
- Bardolino DOC (red/rose)
- Veneto IGT (red)
What are the 3 grape used in the production of Valpolicella?
Corvina, Rodinella and Molinara
What is the grape used in Soave?
Garganega
What are the 3 grapes used in Bardolino?
Corvina, Rodinella and Molinara
What are the 2 main grapes in Veneto IGT?
Corvina and Merlot
What are the 7 key wine regions of Tuscany?
- Bolgheri DOC
- Brunello di Montalcino DOCG
- Chianti DOCG
- Chianti Classico DOCG
- Vernaccia di San Gimignano DOCG
- Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG
- Toscana IGT
Which 3 DOCs create Super Tuscans?
- Bolgheri DOC
- Montecucco DOC
- Val di Cornia DOC
What is the main grape in Chianti DOCG, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG?
Sangiovese
What is the main grape of Vernaccia di San Gimignano DOCG?
Vernaccia
What are the 3 main grapes in Toscana IGT?
Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot
What are the 2 key wine regions of Marche?
- Conero DOCG
- Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi DOC
Which wine region claims the lion’s share of production in Marche?
Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi DOC
What red DOCG in Marche is based of the Montepulciano grape varitey?
Conero DOCG
What is the key wine denomination of Umbria?
Orvieto DOC
Which Italian DOC straddles the Umbria/Lazio border and produces inexpensive wines from Grechetto blended with Trebbiano and Malvasia?
Orvieto DOC
What is Trebbiano known as in Umbria?
Procanico
What is the key wine region of Lazio?
Frascati DOC
What are the 2 main grapes of Frascati DOC?
Malvasia and Trebbiano. Made in a fresh, unoaked style. They are med in body with med to high acidity and flavors of citrus fruit, sometimes with the Malvasia providing floral, orange blossom aromas.
What are the 4 main grapes of Orvieto DOC?
Trebbiano, Grechetto, Malvasia, and Verdello
What are the 2 key wines of Abruzzo?
- Montepulciano d’Abruzzo DOC
- Trebbiano d’Abruzzo DOC
What are the key wine regions of Campania?
- Taurasi DOCG (red wine)
- Fiano di Avellino DOCG (white wine)
- Greco di Tufo DOCG (white wine)
What is the main grape variety in Taurasi DOCG? Is it red or white?
Aglianico (red)
What wine region in Italy produces “the barolo of the south”, is high in tannins and acidity, and must be aged for 3 years before release?
Taurasi DOCG
What are the key wine regions of Puglia?
- Salice Salentino DOC (red)
- Puglia IGT (red)
What are the 2 main grapes in Salice Salentino DOC?
Negroamaro and Malvasia Nera
Which wine is Umbria’s most prestigious red?
Sagrantino di Montefalco DOCG
What are the 2 main grapes of Puglia IGT?
Primitivo and Negroamaro
Which 2 Italian DOCs produce wines of almost port-like medicinal intensity based on a blend of Negroamaro and Malvasia Nera?
- Salice Salentino DOC
- Copertino DOC
What is the Key wine region of Basilicata? Does it porduce red or white wines?
Aglianico del Vulture DOC–red wines of Aglianico
What is the key PGI wine region of Sicily?
Sicilia IGT
What are the 2 main white grapes of Sicily?
Chardonnay and Catarratto
What are the 3 main red grapes of Sicily?
Nero d’Avola, Cabernet Sauvignon, and syrah
In which Sicilian DOC will you find a blend of Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Cappuccio?
Etna DOC
What are the 2 categories of PDO wine in Italy?
- Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG)
- Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC)
What is the PGI category in Italy?
Indicazione Geografica Tipica (IGT)
What term is used to define Italian wine without any geographical indication?
Vino
What does “classico” mean in Italian winemaking?
Classico acknowledges wines made from the original zone before a region’s boundaries were expanded, and many of the best wines of a region come from the Classico zone. Used in numerous regions including Chianti Classico, Soave Classico, and Valpolicella Classico.
What does “riserva” mean in Italian winemaking?
A Much abused term that implies better quality and requires both higher alcohol and longer aging. In Italy, each Italian wine region has a different definition of Riserva. Most wines will be aged a minimum of 2 years to be labelled this way. On the higher end of the spectrum, Amarone is aged for 4 years and Barolo must be aged over 5 years before leaving the cellar.
What is the climate of Spain?
Varied, the northwest area of Spain is moderate maritime. The east coast is warm/hot Mediterranean and the center of Spain is hot continental.
What is the climate like in Northwest Spain?
Cool, wet, moderate maritime
What is the climate of east Spain?
warm/hot mediterranean
What production method is used to make many inexpensive Spanish reds?
Semi carbonic maceration, and often without any oak
Do white or red grapes account for the majority of plantings in Spain?
For Such a warm country and Being internationally famous for its red wines, it is surprising that white grapes account for the majority of plantings in Spain.
What is the most widely planted grape in Spain?
The white grape Airen is the most planted variety in Spain. It is one of the few varieties that can withstand the extreme heat and drought conditions of the Central Meseta. Much of its output is used in the production of Brandy de Jerez.
In addition to any coastal influence, what is another important topographical feature influencing fine wine production in Spain?
The Meseta, a large plateau, where altitude moderates the heat with cool night time temps.
Which country has the largest area planted to vine in the world?
Spain
What is the biggest viticultural challenge faced in Spain?
With the exception of northwest Spain, heat and lack of water is the biggest challenge.
How are vines typically trained in Spain? Why?
As heat and lack of water are the biggest challenge, low density, bush trained vineyards are the best way to maximize the amount of water available and shade the fruit from excessive heat.
When was irrigation legalized in Spain?
1996
Is machine harvesting possible in Spain?
yes, wire training is slowly being introduced to facilitate machine harvesting in Spain
What two human influences (one in the vineyard and one in the cellar) are being done to help produce fresh fruity white wines in Spain?
In the vineyard, harvesting is done at night or early morning; and in the cellar, fermentation is temp controlled stainless steel vessels.These both help retain the fresh, fruity character of the white wines.
What are the 4 key wine regions of the Upper Ebro?
- Rioja DOCa
- Navarra DO
- Carinena
- Calatayud
What 2 wine regions of the Upper Ebro only produce red wines? What 2 grapes are used?
Carinena and Calatayud are the 2 key regions of the Upper Ebro that only produce red. They use: Garnacha and Tempranillo
What are the 4 main red grapes of Rioja DOCa?
- Tempranillo
- Garnacha
- Mazuelo
- Graciano
What are the 3 main white grapes of Rioja DOCa?
- Viura
- Malvasia
- Garnacha Blanca
What are the 4 red grapes of Navarra DO?
- Tempranillo
- Garnacha
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Merlot
What is the main grape used in the roses of Navarra DO?
Garnacha
What are the 3 key wine regions of Catalunya?
- Catalunya DO
- Penedes DO
- Priorat DOC
True or False? The Catalunya DO covers the entire Catalunya region.
True
Which area of Spain Benefits from Llicorella soil? Describe the soil type.
Priorat; llicorella soil consists of layers of red slate with small particles of mica that sparkle in the sun. They help ripening by retaining warmth and, though they are very low in nutrients, because of their depth they can retain sufficient water throughout the growing season
What are the top 3 white grapes of Catalunya?
Parellada, Macabeo, and Xarel-lo
What are the top 2 red grapes of Catalunya?
Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon
What is the most widely planted red grape in Spain?
Tempranillo
What are the 3 main grapes in Priorat DOC?
Garnacha, Carinena and Cabernet Sauvignon
What are the 3 main white grapes in Penedes DO?
Chardonnay, Riesling, and Sauvignon Blanc. Penedes used to be known for its Cava production, using local grapes such as Parellada, Xarel-lo, and Macabeo.
What are the top 4 red grapes in Penedes DO?
Tempranillo (Ull de Llebre), Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinot Noir
What are the 4 key wine regions of the Duero Valley?
- Ribera del Duero DO
- Rueda DO
- Toro DO
- VDlT Castilla y Leon
Which 2 key wine regions of the Duero Valley only produce red wines? What grape is used?
Toro DO and Ribera del Duero DO
Both DOs produce red wines made from Tempranillo (aka Tinto Fino)
What are the 2 main grapes used in Rueda DO? Are they red or white?
Verdejo and Sauvignon Blanc, both whites
What is Tinto Fino?
A clone of Tempranillo found in the Ribera del Duero region.
What red grape is most likely used to produce VDlT Castilla y Leon?
As it is located within the Duero Vally, it is most likely Tempranillo
What are the 2 key wine regions of northwest Spain?
Rias Baixas DO and Bierzo DO
Which Do in northwest Spain is only red and is made from Mencia grapes?
Bierzo DO
Which northwestern Spainish DO is white only made from Albarino grapes?
Rias Biaxas DO
Which 3 key wine regions are found in the Levante?
Valencia, Jumilla, and Yecla
Which 2 wine regions from the Levante are red only? What grape is used?
Jumilla and Yecla produce only red wine made from Monastrell.
Where is the Levante region located?
On the Mediterranean coast of Spain, south of Catalunya
Where does almost half of Spain’s total wine production come from?
The vast central stretch of the Meseta that lies south of Madrid; knoen as Castilla-La Mancha
What is the largest DO in Spain?
La Mancha
What is Tempranillo known as in La Mancha?
Cencibel
What are the 4 key wine regions of Castilla-La Mancha?
- La Mancha DO
- Valdepenas DO
- Vinos de Pago
- VDlT de Castilla
What are the 3 main red grapes in La Mancha DO?
Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah
What is the main grape in Valdepenas DO?
Tempranillo
What are the main 3 categories of PDO wine in Spain?
- Denominacion de Origen Calificada (DOCa)
- Denominacion de Origen (DO)
- Vinos de Pago (VP)
When does a DO wine region qualify for DOCa status in Spain?
DOs of at least 10 years of standing may apply for this prestigious category.
What are the only 2 DOCa wine regions?
Rioja and Priorat
What does the Vinos de Pago (VP) category mean? When was it created?
Created in 2003, it applies to single estates with high reputations. It previously operated outside of wine categories by focusing on international varieties, but in theory, can be awarded to producers who operate within the DO system
Which PDO was introduced in 2003 to act as a stepping stone between VDlT and DO?
VInos de Calidad con Indicacion Geografica (VGIG)
When will a Spanish region be able to apply for DO status?
As soon as a region has held VCIG status for 5 years, they may apply for DO status
What are PGI wines referred to as in Spain?
Vino de la Tierra (VDlT)
What term is used for wines in Spain without any geographical indication?
Vino
What are the red and white wine aging requirements for “joven” wine in Spain?
No time required in cask and the wine is bottled the year following the vintage for immediate release. That goes for red, white, and rose.
What are the red and white wine aging requirements for “crianza” wine in Spain? Which region has exceptions?
Red = 6 months in cask, 24 months total (2 years)
White = 6 months in cask, 18 months total
For Ribera del Duero, red wine must spend 12 months in cask
What are the red and white wine aging requirements for “reserva” wine in Spain?
Red = 12 months in cask, 36 months total (3 years)
White = 6 months in cask, 24 months total (2 years)
What are the red and white wine aging requirements for “gran reserva” wine in Spain? What region has exceptions?
Red = 18 months in cask, 60 months total (5 years)
White = 6 months in cask, 48 months total (4 years)
For Ribera del Duero, 24 months are required in cask for reds, and 12 months is required in cask for whites.
What is the climate of Portugal?
Near the coast, Portugal experiences a warm maritime climate. Inland, it is warm/hot continental.
In which Portuguese region are you most likely to find the Baga grape?
Bairrada
What are the 4 key DOCs of northern Portugal?
- Vinho Verde DOC (white)
- Douro DOC (red)
- Dao DOC (red/white)
- Bairrada DOC (red)
What are the 3 key grapes of Vinho Verde DOC?
- Loureiro
- Arinto
- Alvarinho
What are the 3 grapes of Douro DOC?
- Touriga Nacional
- Touriga Franca
- Tinta Roriz (Tempranillo)
What are the 4 key red grapes of Dao DOC?
- Touriga Nacional
- Tinta Roriz
- Alfrocheiro
- Jaen
What are the 3 key white grapes of Dao DOC?
Encruzado, Bical, Verdelho
What are the 4 key grapes of Bairrada DOC?
- Baga
- Touriga Nacional
- Castelao
- Camarate
Which is Portugal’s finest grape; giving low yeilds of wines with intense color, flavors, and high levels of tannins?
Touriga Nacional
What grape is known as Aragones in southern Portugal and Tempranillo in Spain?
Tinta Roriz
What is the name of Vinho Regional of Alentejo?
Vinho Regional Alentejano
In which Portuguese region would you most likely find a blend of Aragones, Trincadeira and Alicante Bouschet?
Alentejo
Describe the taste profile of a wine made from Trincadeira
Complex fruity, spicy red wines with high levels of tannins and color
Which grape is very good at retaining acidity during ripening (even in hot conditions), produces semi-aromatic fresh fruity wines and produces its finest wines in Bucelas DOC in Portugal?
Arinto
What is the most significant environmental feature of the Vinho Verde?
Rainfall, with an average of 1200 ml (47in)
What are the 2 key PGI wine regions in central Portugal?
IGP Lisboa and IGP Alentejano
What are the 3 main red grapes of IGP Tejo?
Aragones, Syrah, and Touriga Nacional
What was IGP Lisboa formerly known as?
Estremadura
What style of wines are produced in IGP Lisboa?
The red wines are made in modern style from low yielding vineyards to produce fruit driven wines, deep in color and fresh, with medium to high natural acidity. The whites are defined as “lively and elegant”
What are the 3 key regions of southern Portugal?
- IGP Lisboa
- Alentejo DOC
- IGP Alentejano
Which 3 white grapes are used in the production of the light-bodied, crisp, fresh wines of the Vinho region in northern Portugal?
Loureiro, Arinto, and Alvarinho
What is the name of PDO wine in Portugal?
Denominacao de Origem Protegida (DOP), but traditional term, denominacao de Origem Controlada (DOC), is also registered with the EU.
What is the name for PGI wine in Portugal?
Indicacao Geografica Protegida (IGP) but traditional term Vinho Regional is also registered with the EU
Are the Portuguese terms “reserva” and “garrafeira” recognized by the EU?
Yes, they are recognized as traditional terms and may be used as a quality indicator for wines
What are the 4 qualifications for “reserva” wine in Portugal?
- Must be DOC
- Must be a vintage wine with distinctive Characteristics that reflect the grape used
- Alcohol strength must exceed the legal minimum of .5%
- Must be packaged in glass bottles
what are the 3 qualifications for a”garrafeira” wine in Portugal?
- Must have a geographical indication (DOC or IGP)
- Must be vintage wine with distinctive characteristics that reflect grape used
- red garrafeira wine require a minimum aging of 30 months; 12 of which is in glass bottle. white and rose wine require 12 months, of which at least 6 are in glass bottle.
What type of climate does Chile experience?
Warm mediterranean, cooler and wetter in the south; rainfall dramatically increasing in EL Nino years.
What is the cold air current that flows up from the Antartica and flows along the coast of Chile?
The Humbolt Current
What are the top 5 red grapes of Chile? Which is the most widely planted?
- Cabernet Sauvignon (Most planted; accounting for nearing half or all red grapes)
- Merlot
- Carmenere
- Syrah
- Pinot Noir
What are the top 3 white grapes of Chile?
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Chardonnay
- Muscat of Alexandria (Used for Pisco production)
What are the 4 key regions of Chile from north to south?
- Coquimbo
- Aconcagua region
- Central Valley
- Southern Region
What are the 3 subregions of Coquimbo from north to south?
1.Elqui
2. Limari
3. Choapa
What are the 3 subregions of Aconcagua from north to south?
- Aconcagua
- Casablanca
- San Antonio
What are the 4 subregions of Chile’s Central Valley from North to south? Which of them is split in 2? What are those two subzones?
- Maipo
- Rapel–divided into 2 subzones: Cachapoal and Colchagua
- Curico
- Maule
What are the 3 subzones of Chile’s southern region from north to south?
- Itata
- Bio Bio
- Malleco
What are the 3 main grapes of Casablanca region?
Chardonnay, Sauv Blanc, Pinot Noir
What grape is Limari known for?
Chardonnay; Limari has garnered a reputation for producing some of Chile’s finest
Name the only 2 subregions of Chile where white grapes exceed red. Why these areas?
Casablanca and San Antonio. This is because the sites are noticeably cooler thanks to morning fogs and afternoon winds that blow off the ocean
What subregion of Chile’s central valley has a reputation for Cab Sauv with a particular minty character?
Maipo
Which subregion of Chile is almost completely surrounded by mountains, where very little coastal influence reaches its main growing area to the south of Santiago?
Maipo
Is the climate of Cachapoal warm or cool?
warm due to the area being cut off from ocean breezes
What region of Chile experiences annual rainfall in excess of 1000 ml, causing fungal disease to be more widespread?
The Southern Region
Which 2 subregions in Chile are dominated by plantings of Pais and Muscat of Alexandria? Is the output exported or mainly consumed locally?
Itata and Bio Bio, both consumed locally
What 2 grapes does Elqui have a reputation for?
Sauv Blanc and Syrah
Which region of Chile is desert like; very dry and arid?
Coquimbo region as it borders the Atacama Desert and is the most northerly of Chile’s regions
Which particularly cool area of San Antonio, Chile has gained a great reputation for Sauv Blanc?
Leyda Zone
In which 2 subregions of Chile is Merlot important?
Maipo and Rapel
Which grape is key to Aconcagua and Chile’s Central valley (specifically the Cachapoal Zone)?
Carmenere
In which 5 subzones of Chile is Cab Sauv particularly important?
- Aconcagua
- Maipo
- Rapel
- Colchagua
- Cachapoal
What are the 2 main regions for Pinot Noir in Chile?
Casablanca and San Antonio
What type of wines is Colchagua Zone known for?
Full-bodied reds, made mainly from Cab Sauv
What does Denominacion de Origen (DO) indicate in Chile?
A DO is a geographical indication based on Chile’s political districts. DO on the label of a Chilean wine means that 75% of the grapes used are from that DO. It also requires 75% of specified grape for any varietal or vintage labelling.
All vineyards of Argentina lie 600 meters or more above sea level except for which two regions?
Rio Negro and Neuquen
What type of sine training system was used in Argentina traditionally?
Because of heat, most vineyards were planted in the pergola system, known locally as Parral. This lifted the grapes away from the searing heat close to the ground.
What type of vine pruning system is currently employed in Argentina?
Lower-yielding cordon trained VSP systems
Is irrigation used in Argentina?
Yes it is essential, both drip and flood irrigation are used
Name 2 regions that fall in the larger Patagonia Region.
Rio Negro and Neuquen
What is the main environmental challenge experience in Argentina?
Summer hail which destroys 10% of the crop in an average year, although netting has become popular
What is the single most planted grape in Argentina? What grape did it recently overtake?
Malbec, recently overtaking Bonarda
What are the top 5 red grapes of Argentina?
- Malbec
- Bonarda
- Cab Sauv
- Merlot
- Syrah
What are the top 3 white grapes of Argentina?
Torrontes, Chardonnay, Viognier
What are the 6 key regions of Argentina from north to south?
- Salta Province
- La Rioja Province
- San Juan Province
- Mendoza Province
- Neuquen Province
- Rio Negro Province
What is the worlds highest vineyard area? Where is it located?
The Cafayate Region lies at 2750 to 3111m. It is located in the Salta Province of Argentina.
What is the dominant grape of the Cafayate Region?
Torrontes
Is Catamarca a wet or dry region? How does this impact the wines produced?
Very arid and so much of it production is pest-free and organic
To avoid confusion with Rioja of Spain, what is La Rioja Province labelling term?
Famatina
What 3 grapes dominate the La Rioja Province?
Torrontes, Bonarda, and Syrah
Which region of Argetina has given over most of their vineyards to the production of bulk wine?
La Rioja
Which is perhaps the best province in Argentina for Syrah? Why?
San Juan is at a similar elevation as Mendoza (which is hotter and more arid) are great for Syrah.
Which Province of Argentina accounts for over 70% of all wine produced in the country?
Mendoza
What 2 environmental factors help to shield the province of Mendoza from Rain?
Protected by the Andes Mountains to the west and the Argentine Pampas to the east
Which 2 things give life to the area of Mendoza and make it possible to produce high quality grapes?
- Snow melt water from the mountains
- High Altitude
both are important but it is altitude that leads to decreased overall temp, increased diurnal range, and increased sunlight intensity that is the defining feature of Mendoza’s wines
Though Mendoza has no official geographical subdivision, what appellation was created in the province in 1993?
Lujan de Cuyo
EX: Describe the effect yeast autolysis can have on the style of traditional method sparkling wines. (4 marks)
After the 2nd fermentation concludes yeast will die and break down, releasing chemical compounds into the wine (1 mark). These compounds contribute yeasty flavors or bread, biscuit, and toast (1 mark). The longer the wine spends on its lees, the more pronounced these flavors will become (1 mark). Yeast autolysis also gives the wine a richer, rounder mouthfeel (1 mark).
Keeping the wine in contact with the lees can help maintain the wine’s freshness for years (1 mark).
EX: Describe the style of Prosecco. (4 Marks)
Prosecco is a white or rose (1 mark) sparkling wine, typically made in the tank method (1 mark). A white Prosecco will have medium acidity (1 mark) and fresh aromas of green apple and melon (1 mark). It can be made in Brut, Extra-brut, and Dry styles (1 mark). It is best consumed young and not intended for bottle aging (1 mark).
EX: Why would a vintage Port need to be decanted? (2 Marks)
Vintage Port is highly tannic and bottled unfiltered and unfined (1 mark). It will be aged in bottle for an extended period of time, where it will throw heavy sediment (1 mark). This means that the wine should be decanted off of its sediments.
EX: Describe how the production of Muscat de Beaumes-de-Venise in the vineyard and the winery achieves its style. (6 marks)
Grapes are picked when ripe and healthy (1 mark). Raisining or drying of grapes is not typically done to preserve the aromatics (1 mark). Once crushed, juice may be separated from the skins but some skin contact is used to increase aromatics and richness on the palate (1 mark). Fermentation is cool (1 mark) and stopped by fortification with 96% abv grape spirit to create a sweet wine (1 mark). Wines are stored in inert vessels and protected from oxygen to preserve the fresh, fruity aromatics of the grape. floral, and orange (1 mark).
EX: Describe how to open a bottle of sparkling wine. (5 marks)
Chill wine to correct temp (6-10C) to reduce pressure (1 mark). Then remove foil and loosen the wire cage, while holding the cork securely (1 mark). Tilt the bottle at 30 degrees (1 mark), and while gripping the cork, turn the bottle not the cork (1 mark). Ease cork slowly out of the bottle releasing the pressure with quiet ‘phut’, not explosive (1 mark).
EX: What is the difference between a crossing and a hybrid? (2 marks)
A crossing is when a new grape variety is produced from two parent varieties of the same grape species (1 mark). A hybrid is when a new grape variety is produced from parent grapes of different species (1 mark).
EX: Define diurnal range and describe its effect on grapes. (4 marks)
Diurnal range is the difference between daytime and night time temperatures (1 mark). Cool nights slow ripening (1 mark), helping grapes retain more acid and delicate aromas (1 mark). Vineyards in warm climates with a large diurnal range can produce wines that are fresher and more aromatic than vineyards with a smaller diurnal range (1 mark).
EX: Describe the effects of too much rain in a vineyard during flowering and harvest. (6 marks)
Heavy rainfall during flowering can disrupt pollination (1 mark). This can reduce the number of berries that form (1 mark), reducing the size of the berry crop (1 mark).
Too much rainfall during harvest can cause berries to swell excessively (1 mark). This can dilute the flavors in the grape (1 mark). In some cases, the berries will swell to the point of splitting, attracting fungal disease (1 mark).
EX: Vertical Shoot Positioning (VSP) trellised vines are often chosen because they open up the canopy. Describe the benefits of an open canopy. (5 marks)
The primary benefit of an open canopy are managing air circulation (1 mark) and grapes’ exposure to light (1 mark). An open canopy will improve air circulation through the leaves and grapes (1 mark), reducing the risks of rot and fungal disease ( 1 mark). In regions with limited sunlight, an open canopy will also maximize exposure of grapes to light, helping grapes to ripen (1 mark).
True or False? Grapes harvested by machine do not need to be destemmed.
True
San Antonio Valley has a reputation for which white grape?
Sauvignon Blanc
EX: Describe the style and growing environments for Pinot Grigio from Alto Adige and Collio. (8 marks)
Alto Adige Pinot Grigio: Is light to medium bodied with high acidity ( 1 mark); flavors or citrus and green fruit (1 mark). The Growing environment is moderate continental climate (1 mark); short dry summers (1 mark); vineyards at altitude with larger diurnal range (1 mark).
Collio Pinot Grigio: Medium to full-bodied with medium acidity (1 mark); ripe stone and tropical fruit flavors (1 mark). It has a moderate continental climate (1 mark); vineyards in hillsides (1 mark); cooled by mountain air ( 1 mark).
EX: Explain the similarities and differences between each style of the four wines from Valpolicella:
- While all four of these wines are based on the red Corvina grape, the style of the wines are quite different.
- Basic Valpolicella is simple and fruity with low to med tannins, and displays red cherry flavors. These wines are made with fresh, healthy grapes, are rarely oaked, and are intended for early consumption.
- Recioto della Valpolicella and Amarone della Valpolicella are both made in the passito method with dried grapes. Amarone is fermented dry to off dry; these wines are full bodied, high in alcohol, medium to high tannin, and show intensely concentrated red berry and spice flavors. Recioto della Valpolicella is made in the same fashion, but sugars are so concentrated that the fermentation stops naturally. These wines are sweet and have concentrated red fruit, high alcohol, full body, and medium to high tannin.
- Valpolicella Ripasso is made in the Ripasso method. Adding a basic Valpolicella to the unpressed solids from a still-fermenting Amarone results in a wine with medium to full body, medium to high alcohol, med to high tannin, and show flavors of stewed red cherries and plums.
EX: What are the differences between Malbec wines frown at higher altitude vineyards vs. lower altitude vineyards? (4 marks)
Wines made from fruit ripened at lower altitudes are fuller-bodied (1 mark), with richer black fruit (1 mark). Higher altitude vineyards tend to be more elegant, have higher acidity (1 mark), fresher, more floral aromas (1 mark).
EX: Explain why the Breede River Valley is most known for high-volume, inexpensive wines. (4 marks)
The Breede River Valley is hot, helping grapes to ripen consistently (1 mark). The soils are fertile, allowing for large crops of grapes to be produced (1 mark). While it is dry, irrigation is available from the river, providing vines with the water necessary to thrive (1 mark). The dry environment also reduces the occurrence of fungal disease, further helping to produce a large crop of healthy grapes (1 mark).
EX: IDENTIFY the climate of Bordeaux (1 mark)
Moderate maritime climate
EX: DESCRIBE the climate of Bordeaux (3 marks)
Moderate maritime
1. cool to moderate
2. low continentality
3. rain throughout the year
EX: EXPLAIN the impact of the climate of Bordeaux on ripening and harvest (6 marks)
Explain = So What…?
1. Warm enough in order to extend the growing season and ripening into the autumn
2. There is rainfall in the spring and summer which are a threat to flowering and fruit set
3. There is rainfall in autumn which can promote rot and dilute grapes at harvest
EX: IDENTIFY the four key grapes used in Bordeaux red blends and DESCRIBE characteristics that each contributes to the final style of wine (12 marks)
A. Cabernet Sauvignon
1. High tannin, deep color, age-ability, grippy in youth
2. high potential alcohol, full body
3. black currant fruit, cedar
4. may be austere
5. astringent tannins and herbaceous if underripe
B. Merlot
1. red fruit to black fruit
2. sometimes vegetal/leafy
3. medium body, softness
C. Cabernet Franc
1. Vibrant fruit and floral notes when ripe
2. Herbaceous and stalky flavors when underripe
3. Less body, tannin than Cab Sauv
D. Petit Verdot
1. Deeply colored, tannic
2. ages slowly
3. adds tannin, color, and spice
EX: EXPLAIN why the red wines from Bordeaux are generally blends (5 marks).
The region experiences variability in weather, particularly rainfall. This means that vintage variation can be an issue. Blending can be an insurance policy against the weather/bad vintages because these grapes flower and ripen at different times. Therefore, one bad frost or rain is unlikely to ruin an entire crop of different varieties. Blending is also important to style/balance because different grapes contribute different characteristics.
