Q: What is the term for the effect of climate, soil, and landscape on the taste of wine? A: Terroir.
Q: How does soil type influence the acidity and tannin structure of wine? A: Chalky soils generally produce wines with higher acidity, while clay soils can yield wines with stronger tannins.
Q: What are the primary stages in the winemaking process? A: Harvesting, crushing, fermentation, aging, and bottling.
Q: What is malolactic fermentation, and which type of wine commonly undergoes this process? A: A secondary fermentation that converts malic acid to softer lactic acid; commonly used in Chardonnay.
Q : Name three major Italian wine regions known for high-quality red wines. A: Tuscany, Piedmont, and Veneto.
Q: What is the main grape varietal used in Barolo and Barbaresco wines? A: Nebbiolo.
Q: In Tuscany, which grape is primarily used in Chianti? A: Sangiovese.
Q: What is the classification system in Italy that designates wines of superior quality? A: DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita).
Q: What is the concept of “mirror” pairing in wine and food? A: Matching similar flavor intensities and characteristics (e.g., rich red wine with hearty stew).
Q: How does acidity in wine complement food? A: Acidity cuts through richness in dishes and balances flavors.
Q: Why is tannin important in pairing red wines with protein-rich foods? A: Tannins bind with proteins, softening the wine’s astringency and enhancing the taste of both the wine and food.
Q: What is a complementary pairing example for a high-acid white wine? A: High-acid white wines, like Sauvignon Blanc, pair well with acidic foods like tomato-based sauces or salads with vinaigrette.
Q: Which country is known as the "Old World" wine region that influences winemaking globally? A: France.
Q: What are the primary wine-producing countries in the "New World" category? A: United States, Australia, New Zealand, Chile, and Argentina.
Q: Describe the climate of Bordeaux and how it influences the wine styles there. A: Bordeaux has a maritime climate, which allows for balanced ripening of grapes, resulting in wines with balanced acidity and tannins.
Q: Which region in Germany is known for producing high-quality Riesling? A: The Mosel Valley.
Q: What are the two primary grape varieties used in Bordeaux red wines? A: Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.
Q: Which French wine region is renowned for sparkling wine production? A: Champagne.
Q: What is the AOC (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée) system, and why is it important? A: The AOC system regulates wine production by region, ensuring quality and authenticity.
Q: Name a famous wine region in the Rhône Valley and a grape varietal associated with it. A: Châteauneuf-du-Pape; Grenache.
Q: What are the three primary characteristics assessed in wine tasting? A: Appearance, nose, and palate.
Q: What aromas are typically found in an oaked Chardonnay? A: Vanilla, butter, and sometimes toast.
Q: When assessing the body of a wine, what is being evaluated? A: The weight or fullness on the palate, often influenced by alcohol and tannin levels.
Q: Describe how acidity is perceived in wine. A: Acidity gives a wine its freshness and makes the mouth water; higher acidity is often a sign of cooler climates.
Q: What is the difference between an aperitif and a digestif? A: Aperitifs are served before a meal to stimulate appetite, while digestifs are served after to aid digestion.
Q: What is the primary spirit used in a classic Martini? A: Gin or vodka.
Q: Name a commonly used liqueur in cocktails and its base flavor. A: Cointreau, with an orange flavor.
Q: What service standard is important for presenting cocktails in fine dining? A: Serve cocktails at the proper temperature and in the appropriate glassware, garnished attractively.