Free WSET Grape Varieties & Still Wines Test 2

Question 1

What type of climate is best suited for Zinfandel/Primitivo?

Accepted Answer

Warm Climate

Answer

Zinfandel (known as Primitivo in Italy) thrives in warm climates, where it can fully ripen and develop its characteristic rich, jammy fruit flavors and high alcohol. Its thin skin and tendency to ripen unevenly also benefit from consistent warmth, though too much heat can lead to over-ripeness.

Question 2

Which statements about White Zinfandel are true?
1) It is a white wine
2) It is medium-sweet
3) It is high alcohol
4) It is typically aged in oak

Accepted Answer

2 only

Answer

White Zinfandel is a rosé wine, not a white wine, made from red Zinfandel grapes with minimal skin contact. It is famously produced in an off-dry to medium-sweet style, typically with moderate alcohol, and is generally unoaked, designed for immediate consumption rather than aging.

Question 3

Zinfandel grapes can ofted raisin on the vine.

Accepted Answer

TRUE

Answer

Zinfandel grapes are well-known for their uneven ripening, where some berries on a single bunch can be perfectly ripe while others are still green or have already started to raisin. This characteristic contributes to the complexity of flavors in Zinfandel wines but also presents a challenge for viticulturists.

Question 4

Which best describes a red Zinfandel?
(Primary Flavour - Alcohol - Body)

Accepted Answer

Blackberry - High - Full

Answer

Red Zinfandel wines are typically characterized by intense dark fruit flavors such as blackberry, black cherry, and plum, often with notes of spice. Due to the grape's ability to accumulate high sugar levels, the wines are usually high in alcohol and possess a full body.

Question 5

Which Italian region is the source of wines made from Primitivo?

Accepted Answer

Puglia

Answer

Puglia, located in the 'heel' of Italy, is the primary region for Primitivo production. The warm, sunny climate of Puglia is ideal for this grape, which is genetically identical to California's Zinfandel, allowing it to ripen fully and produce rich, fruit-forward wines.

WSET - Wine and Spirit Education Test Practice Test

WSET - Wine and Spirit Education Test Practice Test

Free WSET Grape Varieties & Still Wines Test 2