1.
How should an opened bottle of wine be stored?
Correct Answer
B. Standing Up
Explanation
An opened bottle of wine should be stored standing up. This is because when the bottle is upright, the wine comes into contact with the cork, keeping it moist and preventing it from drying out. If the cork dries out, it can shrink and allow air to enter the bottle, which can spoil the wine. Storing the bottle standing up also helps to prevent any sediment from settling at the bottom of the bottle, making it easier to pour the wine without disturbing the sediment.
2.
A mineral flavor in a wine usually indicates the presence of what in the vineyard's soil?
Correct Answer
B. Limestone
Explanation
A mineral flavor in wine is often associated with the presence of limestone in the vineyard's soil. Limestone contains various minerals and nutrients that can be absorbed by the grapevines, ultimately influencing the flavor profile of the wine. The high calcium content in limestone soil can contribute to a crisp and mineral taste in the wine, adding complexity and depth to the overall flavor.
3.
When a bottle of wine is opened, what determines how long, if at all, it should be aerated?
Correct Answer
B. The Taste
Explanation
When a bottle of wine is opened, the determining factor for how long it should be aerated is the taste. Aeration allows the wine to mix with oxygen, which can enhance its flavors and soften any harsh tannins. However, not all wines benefit from aeration, as some delicate or older wines may lose their aromas and flavors if exposed to too much oxygen. Therefore, the taste of the wine is crucial in deciding the appropriate duration of aeration.
4.
How is the grape juice still extracted today for the best port wines?
Correct Answer
B. Foot Treading
Explanation
Foot treading is the traditional method used to extract grape juice for the best port wines. This process involves workers stomping on the grapes with their bare feet to break the skins and release the juice. Foot treading is believed to be the gentlest method of extraction, as it avoids crushing the seeds and releasing any bitter flavors. It also allows for better control over the extraction process, resulting in high-quality grape juice that is essential for the production of fine port wines.
5.
Whose mother is credited with the creation of the Manhattan, a cocktail of sweet vermouth and whiskey?
Correct Answer
C. Winston Churchill
Explanation
Winston Churchill's mother is credited with the creation of the Manhattan cocktail. The Manhattan is made with sweet vermouth and whiskey, and it is believed that Churchill's mother, Jennie Jerome, first served this drink at a party in New York City. This cocktail has since become a classic and is enjoyed by many.
6.
What caused the decline of interest in German wines in the 20th Century?
Correct Answer
C. WWII
Explanation
The decline of interest in German wines in the 20th Century can be attributed to the impact of World War II. During the war, German vineyards were heavily damaged and production was severely affected. Additionally, the reputation of German wines suffered due to the association with the Nazi regime. These factors led to a decline in the popularity and demand for German wines, allowing other wine-producing countries like Italy to gain prominence in the market.
7.
Almost all wine produced in Germany is what kind?
Correct Answer
D. White
Explanation
Almost all wine produced in Germany is white. This is because Germany is known for its white wine production, particularly Riesling. The cool climate and unique soil conditions in Germany are ideal for growing white grape varieties, which thrive in these conditions. White wine accounts for a significant majority of the wine produced in Germany, making it the most common type of wine in the country.
8.
Which of Germany's wines are the most legendary?
Correct Answer
D. Dessert Wines
Explanation
Dessert wines are considered the most legendary among Germany's wines due to their unique characteristics and long-standing history. These wines are made from late-harvested grapes, which results in a higher sugar content and a rich, sweet flavor profile. Germany is renowned for producing exceptional dessert wines, such as Eiswein (ice wine) and Trockenbeerenauslese (TBA), which require specific climatic conditions and meticulous winemaking techniques. These wines are highly sought after for their complexity, balance, and ability to age gracefully, making them a symbol of German winemaking excellence.
9.
What is added to wine to create a "fortified wine"?
Correct Answer
A. Alcohol
Explanation
Fortified wine is created by adding alcohol to the wine. This process increases the alcohol content in the wine, making it stronger and more potent. The addition of alcohol also helps to preserve the wine and extend its shelf life. Fortified wines are known for their rich flavors and higher alcohol content compared to regular wines.
10.
What varietal is used to make Portugal's Barca Velha?
Correct Answer
A. Tinta Roriz
Explanation
Tinta Roriz is the correct varietal used to make Portugal's Barca Velha. Tinta Roriz, also known as Tempranillo, is a red grape variety commonly found in Portugal and Spain. It is known for producing full-bodied and complex wines with flavors of dark fruits, spice, and earthiness. Barca Velha is a prestigious and highly regarded wine in Portugal, known for its exceptional quality and aging potential. Tinta Roriz is one of the key grapes used in the blend for Barca Velha, contributing to its rich and robust character.
11.
What is the source of tannin that is found in red wines?
Correct Answer
B. Grape Skins
Explanation
Tannins are a group of compounds that contribute to the taste and mouthfeel of red wines. They are primarily found in the skins, seeds, and stems of grapes. When red wines are made, the grape skins are left in contact with the juice during fermentation, allowing the tannins to be extracted. Therefore, the correct source of tannin in red wines is grape skins.
12.
What is the source of the color that makes wine red?
Correct Answer
C. Grape Skins
Explanation
The correct answer is grape skins. Grape skins contain a pigment called anthocyanin, which gives red wine its color. During the winemaking process, the grape skins are left in contact with the grape juice for a certain period of time, allowing the anthocyanin to be extracted and impart its red color to the wine. This is why red wine is typically made from red or purple grape varieties, while white wine is made from green or yellow grape varieties, where the skins are removed before fermentation.
13.
What is the primary characteristic of a dessert wine?
Correct Answer
B. Sweetness
Explanation
The primary characteristic of a dessert wine is its sweetness. Dessert wines are typically made from grapes that have a higher sugar content, resulting in a sweet taste. This sweetness is achieved through various methods such as late harvesting, drying the grapes, or stopping fermentation early. The sweetness of dessert wines pairs well with desserts and can also be enjoyed on its own as a dessert.
14.
If the style of wine is "still", what does that mean?
Correct Answer
B. It Is Not Sparkling
Explanation
The term "still" refers to a type of wine that is not sparkling. Unlike sparkling wines, which have carbonation and bubbles, still wines are flat and do not have any effervescence. This term is used to differentiate between the two styles of wine and indicates that the wine is not fizzy or sparkling in nature.
15.
What causes champagne to have bubbles?
Correct Answer
B. Carbon Dioxide
Explanation
Champagne has bubbles because of the presence of carbon dioxide. During the fermentation process, yeast converts sugar into alcohol and carbon dioxide. The carbon dioxide gets trapped in the bottle, resulting in the fizzy bubbles when the champagne is opened.