1.
Which of the following wines is matured under a layer of 'flor'?
Correct Answer
A. Sherry
Explanation
Sherry is the correct answer because it is a type of wine that is matured under a layer of 'flor'. Flor is a layer of yeast that forms on the surface of the wine during the aging process, protecting it from oxidation and giving it unique flavors and aromas. This aging method is specific to the production of Sherry, making it the only wine on the list that is matured in this way. Sercial Madeira, Oloroso Sherry, and Rutherglen Muscat do not undergo the same aging process as Sherry.
2.
Why is PX sweet?
Correct Answer
B. It is made from raisined grapes
Explanation
PX, or Pedro Ximenez, is a sweet wine because it is made from raisined grapes. Raisining is a process where grapes are left to dry out, concentrating their sugars. This results in a higher sugar content in the grapes, which translates into a sweeter wine. The raisined grapes used in the production of PX contribute to its characteristic sweetness, making it a popular choice for dessert wines.
3.
Sanlucar de Barrameda is the town where
Correct Answer
B. Manzanilla Sherry matures
Explanation
Manzanilla Sherry matures in Sanlucar de Barrameda. This town is known for producing and maturing Manzanilla Sherry, a type of fortified wine. The unique climate and coastal location of Sanlucar de Barrameda contribute to the specific characteristics of Manzanilla Sherry, such as its pale color and delicate flavor. Therefore, it can be concluded that Sanlucar de Barrameda is the place where Manzanilla Sherry matures.
4.
Which one of the following pairs match?
Correct Answer
D. Albariza and Jerez
Explanation
Albariza is a type of soil found in the Jerez region in Spain, which is known for producing Sherry wine. This soil is rich in chalk and limestone, which helps to retain moisture and nutrients, making it ideal for growing grapes. Therefore, the pair Albariza and Jerez match because Albariza is the type of soil found in the Jerez region.
5.
Where is Rutherglen Muscat produced?
Correct Answer
D. Victoria
Explanation
Rutherglen Muscat is produced in Victoria.
6.
What name is given to the warehouses in which Sherry matures?
Correct Answer
B. Bodegas
Explanation
Bodegas is the correct answer because it refers to the warehouses in which Sherry matures. The term "bodegas" specifically refers to the traditional, atmospheric cellars used for aging Sherry in Jerez, Spain. These bodegas provide the ideal conditions of temperature, humidity, and air circulation necessary for the maturation process of Sherry wines.
7.
What is the name of the soil of the Douro Valley?
Correct Answer
A. Schist
Explanation
The correct answer is Schist. Schist is the name of the soil found in the Douro Valley. Schist is a type of metamorphic rock that is characterized by its coarse-grained texture and ability to retain heat. It is well-suited for growing grapes, which is why the Douro Valley is famous for its vineyards and wine production. The schist soil helps to provide good drainage and mineral-rich conditions for the grapevines, resulting in high-quality wines.
8.
Port lodges are traditionally located in which town?
Correct Answer
B. Vila Nova de Gaia
Explanation
Port lodges are traditionally located in Vila Nova de Gaia. This town is situated across the Douro River from Porto, in Portugal. Vila Nova de Gaia is known for its historic wine cellars, where the famous Port wine is produced and aged. The unique climate and soil conditions in this region make it ideal for the production of Port wine, and Vila Nova de Gaia has become synonymous with this type of wine.
9.
Which ONE of the following pairs of grape varieties is used for the production of Madeira?
Correct Answer
D. Malmsey and Bual
Explanation
Malmsey and Bual are the correct pair of grape varieties used for the production of Madeira. Madeira is a fortified wine produced on the Portuguese island of Madeira. Malmsey, also known as Malvasia, is a sweet and rich grape variety that adds sweetness and depth to the wine. Bual, also known as Boal, is a medium-sweet grape variety that contributes to the balance and complexity of the wine. Together, these grape varieties create the unique flavor profile of Madeira wine.
10.
Much Madeira owes its character to
Correct Answer
C. The estufagem system
Explanation
The estufagem system is responsible for giving Much Madeira its character. This system involves heating the wine in stainless steel tanks or wooden casks, which accelerates the aging process. This process helps develop the unique flavors and characteristics of Much Madeira. The use of late-harvest grapes, the solera system, and the use of black grape varieties only may contribute to the overall quality and taste of the wine, but they are not specifically mentioned as the reason for its character in the given options.
11.
The style of 20 year old Tawny Port is influenced by
Correct Answer
B. Oxidative aging
Explanation
The correct answer is oxidative aging. This is because the style of 20 year old Tawny Port is influenced by the process of oxidative aging, which involves the wine being exposed to oxygen over a long period of time. This exposure to oxygen causes the wine to develop a rich and nutty flavor profile, as well as a tawny color. The oxidative aging process also helps to mellow out the tannins in the wine and create a smooth and complex finish.
12.
Which one of the following grapes can be used in the production of Vins Doux Naturels?
Correct Answer
C. Grenache
Explanation
Grenache grapes can be used in the production of Vins Doux Naturels. Vins Doux Naturels is a style of sweet fortified wine produced in the Roussillon region of France. Grenache grapes are known for their high sugar content, which makes them ideal for producing sweet wines. Additionally, Grenache grapes have a good balance of acidity, which helps to create a well-rounded and balanced flavor profile in the wine. Therefore, Grenache is a suitable grape variety for making Vins Doux Naturels.