1.
From what does Vouvray take its name?
Correct Answer
A. The Village Of Vouvray
Explanation
Vouvray takes its name from the village of Vouvray. The village, located in the Loire Valley region of France, is known for producing high-quality white wines made from Chenin Blanc grapes. These wines are often referred to as Vouvray wines, and they are highly regarded for their crisp acidity, floral aromas, and flavors of honey and citrus. The village of Vouvray has a long history of winemaking and is recognized as one of the premier wine-producing areas in the Loire Valley.
2.
What is Chenin Blanc called in South Africa?
Correct Answer
D. Steen
Explanation
Chenin Blanc is called Steen in South Africa.
3.
What grape is the basis for France's famous Vouvray and Anjou wines?
Correct Answer
B. Chenin Blanc
Explanation
Chenin Blanc is the correct answer because it is the grape variety that is used as the basis for France's famous Vouvray and Anjou wines. Chenin Blanc is a versatile white grape that is known for its high acidity and ability to produce a wide range of wine styles, from dry to sweet. It is particularly well-suited to the cool climate of the Loire Valley, where Vouvray and Anjou are located, and is the dominant grape variety in these regions. Chenin Blanc wines from Vouvray and Anjou are known for their crispness, floral aromas, and flavors of apple, pear, and honey.
4.
Which of these wines should be drunk soon after purchase?
Correct Answer
D. Sauvignon Blanc
Explanation
Sauvignon Blanc should be drunk soon after purchase because it is a white wine that is known for its freshness and vibrant flavors. Unlike other wines like Montrachet, White Burgundy, and Meursaults, which are usually aged to develop complexity and depth, Sauvignon Blanc is best enjoyed when it is young and its fruity and aromatic characteristics are at their peak. Drinking it soon after purchase ensures that you experience the wine's bright acidity and lively flavors before they diminish over time.
5.
Most Sauvignon Blancs have what two qualities?
Correct Answer
B. Dry & Unoaked
Explanation
Sauvignon Blanc is known for its dry and unoaked characteristics. Dry refers to the absence of residual sugar in the wine, making it not sweet. Unoaked means that the wine has not been aged or fermented in oak barrels, resulting in a fresher and more vibrant taste. These qualities are commonly associated with Sauvignon Blanc, making the answer "Dry & Unoaked" the correct choice.
6.
In what is most Sauvignon Blanc fermented?
Correct Answer
D. Steel Vats
Explanation
Sauvignon Blanc is most commonly fermented in steel vats. Steel vats provide a neutral environment for fermentation, allowing the natural flavors and aromas of the grape to shine through without any influence from oak or other materials. This results in a crisp and refreshing wine with vibrant fruit flavors. Aged oak barrels or new oak barrels are more commonly used for aging wine rather than fermentation. Glass bottles are used for bottling the finished wine, not for fermentation.
7.
What is the second most widely planted white varietal in France?
Correct Answer
A. Sauvignon Blanc
Explanation
Sauvignon Blanc is the second most widely planted white varietal in France. This means that it is the second most commonly grown white grape variety in the country. It is popular for its crisp acidity and vibrant flavors, making it a favorite choice for many French wine producers.
8.
What is often considered "a poor man's Chardonnay"?
Correct Answer
D. Pinot Blanc
Explanation
Pinot Blanc is often considered "a poor man's Chardonnay" because it is a white wine that shares similar characteristics to Chardonnay but is usually more affordable. It is known for its crisp acidity, medium body, and flavors of apple, pear, and citrus. While Chardonnay is often associated with high-quality and expensive wines, Pinot Blanc is seen as a budget-friendly alternative that still offers a similar taste profile.
9.
What is the most widely planted white varietal in France?
Correct Answer
B. Chardonnay
Explanation
Chardonnay is the most widely planted white varietal in France. This grape variety is known for its versatility and is grown in various regions across the country. Chardonnay wines can range from crisp and unoaked to rich and buttery, making it a popular choice among winemakers and consumers alike. Its popularity and adaptability have contributed to its widespread cultivation in France.
10.
Where did the Semillon grape originate?
Correct Answer
A. Bordeaux
Explanation
The Semillon grape originated in Bordeaux. Bordeaux is a famous wine region in France known for its production of high-quality wines. Semillon is one of the key grape varieties used in the production of white Bordeaux wines. It is known for its versatility and ability to produce wines with a range of flavors and styles. The region's climate and terroir contribute to the unique characteristics of the Semillon grape, making Bordeaux the rightful place of origin for this variety.
11.
Where did the Gewurztraminer grape originate?
Correct Answer
C. Northern Italy
Explanation
The Gewurztraminer grape originated in Northern Italy. This region is known for producing aromatic and flavorful wines, and Gewurztraminer is one of the key grape varieties grown there. The cool climate and unique terroir of Northern Italy contribute to the distinctive characteristics of Gewurztraminer wines, which are often described as spicy, floral, and full-bodied. While Germany and Austria are also known for producing Gewurztraminer, the grape's origins can be traced back to Northern Italy.
12.
Gewurztraminer grapes are grown most famously in what region of France?
Correct Answer
D. Alsace
Explanation
Gewurztraminer grapes are most famously grown in the Alsace region of France. Alsace is known for its cool climate and unique terroir, which is ideal for cultivating this aromatic white grape variety. The region's dry and sunny summers, combined with its clay and limestone soils, contribute to the distinctive flavors and characteristics of Gewurztraminer wines produced there.
13.
What is another name for Pinot Grigio?
Correct Answer
A. Pinot Gris
Explanation
Pinot Grigio is another name for Pinot Gris. Both terms refer to the same white wine grape variety. The grape is known for producing light-bodied, crisp, and refreshing wines with flavors of citrus, pear, and melon. The name "Pinot Gris" is commonly used in France, while "Pinot Grigio" is the Italian name for the same grape variety.
14.
Which term best describes Chardonnay?
Correct Answer
A. Dry
Explanation
Chardonnay is described as "Dry" because it is a type of white wine that typically has low residual sugar content. This means that it is not sweet and has a more crisp and refreshing taste. Dry wines are often preferred by those who enjoy a more balanced and less sweet flavor profile.
15.
What kind of wine is made with the Melon De Bourgogne varietal?
Correct Answer
B. Muscadet
Explanation
Muscadet is the correct answer because it is a type of wine that is made with the Melon De Bourgogne varietal. Muscadet is a white wine that is primarily produced in the Loire Valley of France, specifically in the region of Muscadet. The Melon De Bourgogne grape is the main grape variety used to make Muscadet wine, which is known for its crisp, dry, and refreshing characteristics.