SOMM Wine Laws and Appellations

Question 1

In France, the AOC (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée) system regulates which aspects of wine production?

Accepted Answer

Geographic origin, permitted grape varieties, yields, and winemaking practices

Answer

The French AOC system controls geographic boundaries, permitted grape varieties, maximum yields, minimum alcohol levels, and specific viticultural and winemaking practices.

Question 2

The 1855 Bordeaux Classification ranked châteaux based primarily on which factor?

Accepted Answer

Market prices at the time of classification

Answer

The 1855 Bordeaux Classification was created for the Paris Universal Exhibition and ranked châteaux primarily by their established market prices, which reflected their historical reputation.

Question 3

In Italy, what does the designation 'DOCG' (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) indicate compared to DOC?

Accepted Answer

It is the highest classification, with stricter production rules and mandatory tasting approval

Answer

DOCG is Italy's highest wine classification, requiring stricter production standards than DOC plus mandatory approval by a tasting committee before release.

Question 4

What is a 'Grand Cru' designation in Burgundy's classification hierarchy?

Accepted Answer

The highest tier, designating specific top vineyard sites

Answer

Grand Cru is Burgundy's highest vineyard classification, with only 33 red and white Grand Cru sites in the Côte d'Or, representing the finest terroirs.

Question 5

The German Prädikat system classifies wines based on what factor?

Accepted Answer

The ripeness/sugar level of grapes at harvest

Answer

Germany's Prädikat system (Kabinett, Spätlese, Auslese, Beerenauslese, Trockenbeerenauslese, Eiswein) classifies wines by increasing grape must sugar levels at harvest.

SOMM - Certified Sommelier Examination Practice Test

SOMM - Certified Sommelier Examination Practice Test

SOMM Wine Laws and Appellations