The Rhone Appellation Wine Quiz
The wines and terroir of the northern and southern Rhone wine regions.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
Syrah is the only red grape permitted to grow In the northern Rhone, but is sometimes blended (up to 20%) with viognier from northern Rhone?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
In the northern Rhone, Syrah is the only red grape variety allowed to be grown. However, it is sometimes blended with up to 20% Viognier, which is a white grape variety also grown in the northern Rhone. This blending technique is commonly used to enhance the aromatic qualities and add complexity to the resulting red wine. Therefore, the answer is "Yes."Rate this question:
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- 2.
The best northern Rhone vineyards cling to narrow rocky terraces on steep slopes over the river?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
The given answer, "Yes," is correct because the statement accurately describes the best northern Rhone vineyards. These vineyards are known for being located on narrow rocky terraces on steep slopes over the river. This unique terrain provides ideal conditions for grape cultivation and contributes to the high quality of wines produced in this region.Rate this question:
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- 3.
The Rhone River flows from the Swiss Alps to an outlet on the Mediterranean at Marseille?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
The Rhone River does indeed flow from the Swiss Alps to an outlet on the Mediterranean at Marseille. This river spans multiple countries, including Switzerland and France, and is one of the major rivers in Europe. Its source is in the Swiss Alps, and it flows southward through Switzerland and France before reaching the Mediterranean Sea at Marseille.Rate this question:
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- 4.
The well-priced Cote-du-Rhone wines usually come from the larger southern Rhone vineyards?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
The larger southern Rhone vineyards are known for producing well-priced Cote-du-Rhone wines. This suggests that the statement is true and the correct answer is "Yes".Rate this question:
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- 5.
Before the rise of Rhone wines in the 1980s the style was considered ‘blue collar’, but that’s misleading since Rhone grapes were commonly blended with the Burgundy and Bordeaux wines?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
The given answer "Yes" is correct because the statement suggests that before the 1980s, Rhone wines were considered 'blue collar' which implies that they were not highly regarded. However, this perception is misleading because Rhone grapes were commonly blended with the prestigious Burgundy and Bordeaux wines. This indicates that Rhone grapes were actually used in the production of high-quality wines, contradicting the notion that they were only associated with a lower class or status.Rate this question:
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- 6.
The most famous northern Rhone reds are Cote Rotie and Hermitage?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
The most famous northern Rhone reds are Cote Rotie and Hermitage. These wines are highly regarded for their quality and are known for their distinct characteristics. Cote Rotie is known for its elegant and aromatic wines, often made from a blend of Syrah and Viognier grapes. Hermitage, on the other hand, produces powerful and structured wines, primarily made from Syrah. Both of these appellations have a long history and are considered to be among the finest in the Rhone Valley.Rate this question:
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- 7.
The most famous southern Rhone wine is the red or white (but not rose) Chateauneuf-du-Pape?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
Chateauneuf-du-Pape is indeed one of the most famous wines from the southern Rhone region. It is renowned for its high-quality red and white wines, which are highly regarded and sought after by wine enthusiasts around the world. The region's unique terroir, with its rocky soil and Mediterranean climate, contributes to the distinct characteristics and flavors of the Chateauneuf-du-Pape wines. Therefore, it is accurate to say that Chateauneuf-du-Pape is a well-known and highly regarded wine from the southern Rhone.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Syrah is the exclusive red grape in the northern Rhone vineyards?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
Syrah is indeed the exclusive red grape in the northern Rhone vineyards. This means that it is the only red grape variety grown in this specific region. The northern Rhone is known for producing high-quality Syrah wines, such as Hermitage and Côte-Rôtie. Other red grape varieties, such as Grenache and Mourvèdre, are more commonly found in the southern Rhone vineyards. Therefore, the statement "Yes" is the correct answer as it accurately reflects the exclusivity of Syrah in the northern Rhone vineyards.Rate this question:
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- 9.
The most abundant southern Rhone grapes are viognier, marsanne and rousanne?
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
False. While Viognier, Marsanne, and Roussanne are grown in the southern Rhône, the most abundant white grape varieties in the region are often Grenache Blanc, Clairette, Bourboulenc, and Picpoul.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Bordeaux is thirty-four times larger than the Chateauneuf-du-Pape appellation?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
Bordeaux is indeed thirty-four times larger than the Chateauneuf-du-Pape appellation. This means that the Bordeaux region has a significantly larger area of vineyards and produces a much larger quantity of wine compared to Chateauneuf-du-Pape. The size difference between the two appellations may also indicate variations in the types of grapes grown and the overall wine production capacity.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Grenache is the dominant red grape in most Southern Rhône wines, especially in Châteauneuf-du-Pape where it is typically over 80% of the blend?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
Grenache is indeed the dominant red grape in most Southern Rhône wines, particularly in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, where it typically makes up over 80% of the blend. This grape variety is known for its ability to thrive in warm climates and produce wines with high alcohol content, rich flavors, and soft tannins. Its versatility allows it to be blended with other grape varieties such as Syrah and Mourvèdre to create complex and well-balanced wines. Therefore, the answer "Yes" is correct.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Rose wines are not allowed to be made under the Chateauneuf-du-Pape appellation label?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
The Chateauneuf-du-Pape appellation label is a prestigious designation in the wine industry, known for producing high-quality red and white wines. However, according to the regulations of this appellation, rose wines are not allowed to be made under the Chateauneuf-du-Pape label. This means that any wine produced in the Chateauneuf-du-Pape region must be either red or white, and rose wines cannot be included in this category.Rate this question:
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- 13.
The most dramatic syrahs come from the northern Rhone Valley (Cote Rotie and the Hermitage)?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
The correct answer is "Yes" because the northern Rhone Valley, specifically Cote Rotie and Hermitage, are renowned for producing some of the most dramatic syrahs. These regions have ideal terroir and climate conditions for growing syrah grapes, resulting in wines that are bold, powerful, and full-bodied. The combination of steep slopes, granite soils, and the influence of the Mistral wind creates a unique microclimate that contributes to the intensity and complexity of the syrahs produced in this area.Rate this question:
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- 14.
A 5% Viognier blend is common in northern Rhone syrahs?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
A 5% Viognier blend is common in northern Rhone syrahs because Viognier is often used as a blending grape to enhance the aromatics and add complexity to the wine. The small percentage of Viognier can help soften the tannins and add floral and fruity notes to the syrah, creating a more balanced and well-rounded wine. This practice is particularly prevalent in the northern Rhone region of France, where syrah is the dominant grape variety and Viognier is also grown.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Steep vineyards with direct sunlight allow the northern Rhone grapes to bathe in sunlight (for ripeness) then cool in the altitude breezes preserving acidity and finesse?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
The steep vineyards with direct sunlight in the northern Rhone region allow the grapes to receive ample sunlight, which is essential for ripening. However, the altitude breezes in the area help to cool down the grapes, preserving their acidity and finesse. This combination of sunlight and cooling breezes is beneficial for the grapes, resulting in a balanced and flavorful wine. Therefore, the answer is yes.Rate this question:
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- 16.
To thrive for the purposes of winemaking, Syrah grapes need the warmth of day and the coolness of night on the steep slope of Cote Rotie and the Hermitage in the northern Rhone region?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
Syrah grapes require a specific combination of warm days and cool nights in order to thrive for winemaking. The steep slopes of Cote Rotie and the Hermitage in the northern Rhone region provide these necessary conditions, making it an ideal location for growing Syrah grapes.Rate this question:
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- 17.
No white wine is made in Cote Rotie?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
Cote Rotie is a wine region in France known for its production of red wines, specifically from the Syrah grape. White wine production is not a characteristic of this region, therefore the statement "No white wine is made in Cote Rotie" is correct.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Cote Rotie means roasted hillside?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
The correct answer is Yes. Cote Rotie is a French wine region located in the Northern Rhone Valley. The name "Cote Rotie" translates to "roasted slope" or "roasted hillside" in English. This name refers to the steep slopes of the vineyards that are exposed to the sun, which helps in ripening the grapes and producing high-quality wines.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Northern Rhones get their spicy briary aromas from the stems of grapes?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
The stems of grapes in Northern Rhones contribute to the spicy briary aromas found in the wine.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Le Mistral is an icy northern wind that can quickly cool vines in the Rhone?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
Especially, in the northern Rhone.Rate this question:
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- 21.
The northern Rhone is the source of the rarest and most expensive reds and whites in the Rhone Valley?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
The northern Rhone region is known for producing some of the rarest and most expensive red and white wines in the entire Rhone Valley. The unique terroir, climate, and grape varieties grown in this area contribute to the exceptional quality and limited production of these wines. This makes them highly sought after by wine enthusiasts and collectors, resulting in their high prices in the market. Therefore, it is correct to say that the northern Rhone is the source of the rarest and most expensive reds and whites in the Rhone Valley.Rate this question:
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- 22.
The southern Rhone grows several whites (Viognier and other) while in the north Syrah is the only red grape permitted to grow there?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
The explanation for the given correct answer is that the southern Rhone region is known for growing several white grape varieties, including Viognier, in addition to other white grapes. On the other hand, in the northern Rhone region, only the red grape variety Syrah is permitted to be grown. Therefore, it is true that in the southern Rhone, several white grapes are grown, while in the north, only Syrah is allowed.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Marsanne and Rosanne are the two whites in addition to Viognier that grow abundantly in the southern Rhone and less abundantly in the northern Rhone?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
Marsanne and Rosanne are two white grape varieties that are commonly grown in the southern Rhone region and to a lesser extent in the northern Rhone region. Viognier is another white grape variety that also grows abundantly in both regions. Therefore, the statement that Marsanne and Rosanne are the two whites in addition to Viognier that grow abundantly in the southern Rhone and less abundantly in the northern Rhone is correct.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Northern Rhone Syrahs are know for gamy, meaty animal flavors?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
Northern Rhone Syrahs are known for their gamy, meaty animal flavors. This is because the region's cool climate and unique terroir contribute to the development of these distinctive characteristics in the Syrah grapes. The combination of cooler temperatures and the influence of the Rhone River create a growing environment that promotes the development of savory, earthy flavors in the grapes. As a result, Northern Rhone Syrahs often exhibit notes of game, meat, and animal-like aromas and flavors, making them highly sought after by wine enthusiasts.Rate this question:
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- 25.
These are five appellations in the northern Rhone: Condrieu, Chateau-Grillet, St Joseph, Hermitage and Crozes-Hermitage
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
The given appellations, Condrieu, Chateau-Grillet, St Joseph, Hermitage, and Crozes-Hermitage, are all located in the northern Rhone region. Therefore, the answer "Yes" indicates that all five appellations are indeed in the northern Rhone.Rate this question:
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- 26.
How many of the classic grapes are included in the Chateauneuf-du-Pape Thirteen?
- A.
One - Syrah
- B.
Two - Syrah and Cabernet
Correct Answer
A. One - SyrahExplanation
The thirteen are the red and white grapes that are allowed to be blended into the Chateauneuf-du-Pape.Rate this question:
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- 27.
The classic red grapes are Cabernet, Merlot, Pinot Noir and Syrah?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
The statement is asking if Cabernet, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Syrah are classic red grapes. The answer "Yes" implies that these four grape varieties are indeed considered classic red grapes.Rate this question:
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- 28.
The classic white grapes are Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Riesling and Semillon?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
The classic white grapes mentioned in the question are Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Riesling, and Semillon. These grape varieties are widely recognized and used in the production of white wines. They are known for their distinct flavors and characteristics, making them popular choices among winemakers and wine enthusiasts.Rate this question:
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- 29.
The climate in the northern Rhone is continental (with a winter) and in the southern Rhone Mediterranean?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
The climate in the northern Rhone is continental, characterized by cold winters and hot summers. On the other hand, the climate in the southern Rhone is Mediterranean, which means it has mild winters and hot, dry summers. Therefore, the statement that the climate in the northern Rhone is continental and in the southern Rhone Mediterranean is correct.Rate this question:
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- 30.
The Rhone is south of Burgundy?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
The Rhone is indeed south of Burgundy. The Rhone river flows through southeastern France, running southward from the Swiss Alps and passing through Burgundy before reaching the Mediterranean Sea. Therefore, it is accurate to say that the Rhone is south of Burgundy.Rate this question:
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- 31.
The terroir of the Chateauneuf-du-Pape appellation is made up of smooth round stones formed by the Alpine glaciers and there is little soil to be seen?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
The explanation for the answer "Yes" is that the terroir of the Chateauneuf-du-Pape appellation is indeed made up of smooth round stones formed by the Alpine glaciers, and there is little soil to be seen. This unique terroir composition plays a crucial role in the character and quality of the wines produced in this region. The stones help retain heat and reflect it back onto the vines, aiding in ripening the grapes. The lack of soil also contributes to the low yields and concentrated flavors found in Chateauneuf-du-Pape wines.Rate this question:
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- 32.
The main red Chateauneuf-du-Pape grapes are Grenache, Syrah and Mourvedre?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
The main red Chateauneuf-du-Pape grapes are Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvedre. These grape varieties are traditionally used in the production of Chateauneuf-du-Pape wines, which are known for their rich and complex flavors. Grenache contributes fruity and spicy characteristics, Syrah adds depth and structure, while Mourvedre brings earthy and gamey notes. This combination of grape varieties creates a balanced and harmonious wine that is characteristic of Chateauneuf-du-Pape.Rate this question:
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- 33.
Eight reds and six whites are in the Chateauneuf-du-Pape Thirteen (actually fourteen) that are allowed in the blends?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
The given answer is "Yes" because it states that there are eight reds and six whites in the Chateauneuf-du-Pape Thirteen (actually fourteen) that are allowed in the blends. This implies that the Chateauneuf-du-Pape Thirteen is a blend of red and white wines, with a majority of reds (eight) and a smaller number of whites (six). Therefore, the answer "Yes" is correct.Rate this question:
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- 34.
Grenache grapes are susceptible to oxidation in wooden barrels so they are vinified in cement tanks?
- A.
Yes
- B.
No
Correct Answer
A. YesExplanation
Grenache grapes are susceptible to oxidation in wooden barrels due to their high sensitivity to oxygen exposure. Therefore, to minimize the risk of oxidation and preserve the quality of the wine, Grenache grapes are often vinified in cement tanks. Cement tanks provide a neutral environment that does not introduce any unwanted flavors or aromas to the wine, allowing the natural characteristics of the grapes to shine through. Additionally, cement tanks offer better temperature control during fermentation, ensuring a more stable and controlled process.Rate this question:
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Sep 11, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Jun 15, 2010Quiz Created by
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