WSET Viticulture & Winemaking — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the term for the period when grapes begin to ripen on the vine?
- Budburst
- Veraison (Correct answer)
- Flowering
- Harvest
Correct answer: Veraison
Veraison is the stage in the grape ripening process when the grapes begin to soften and change color, indicating the onset of ripening.
Question 2: Which factor has the greatest influence on the sugar and acidity levels in grapes?
- Grape color
- Type of barrel
- Climate (Correct answer)
- Bottle closure
Correct answer: Climate
Climate plays a critical role in determining the balance of sugar and acidity in grapes, affecting the final wine's flavor and structure.
Question 3: What is the purpose of malolactic fermentation in winemaking?
- Increases tannin levels
- Clarifies the wine
- Converts sugar to alcohol
- Reduces acidity and softens flavor (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Reduces acidity and softens flavor
Malolactic fermentation reduces the wine's acidity and produces softer, rounder flavors by converting malic acid into lactic acid.
Question 4: Which vineyard technique helps control yields and improve grape quality?
- Trellising
- Green harvesting (Correct answer)
- Irrigation
- Grafting
Correct answer: Green harvesting
Green harvesting involves removing unripe grape clusters early in the season, allowing the vine to focus resources on the remaining fruit.
Question 5: Which vessel is traditionally used for fermenting and aging wine in a way that allows for gentle oxygen exposure?
- Glass tank
- Stainless steel tank
- Oak barrel (Correct answer)
- Plastic fermenter
Correct answer: Oak barrel
Oak barrels are porous, allowing a small amount of oxygen to interact with the wine, which contributes to complexity and softening of tannins.
Question 6: What is the role of sulfur dioxide (SOâ‚‚) in winemaking?
- Sweetens the wine
- Increases alcohol content
- Enhances fruit flavors
- Preserves wine by preventing oxidation (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Preserves wine by preventing oxidation
Sulfur dioxide is used to protect wine from oxidation and microbial spoilage during production and aging.
WSET Viticulture & Winemaking
What is the term for the period when grapes begin to ripen on the vine?