SOMM Spirits and Fortified Wines 2

Question 1

Which grape variety must comprise at least 51% of a wine labeled 'Vintage Port'?

Accepted Answer

Touriga Nacional

Answer

Touriga Nacional is considered the finest Port grape and typically dominates Vintage Port blends, contributing structure, aroma, and longevity.

Question 2

What distinguishes an 'Oloroso' Sherry from a 'Fino' Sherry in terms of production?

Accepted Answer

Oloroso ages oxidatively without flor; Fino ages under a protective flor yeast layer

Answer

Oloroso Sherry is fortified to a higher alcohol level (18%+) that prevents flor growth, aging entirely through oxidation and developing a dark, nutty, full-bodied character.

Question 3

Armagnac differs from Cognac in that it is typically distilled using which method?

Accepted Answer

Continuous column still (alambic armagnacais)

Answer

Armagnac is typically distilled once through a continuous alambic armagnacais column still, unlike Cognac's double pot still distillation, resulting in a heavier, more rustic spirit.

Question 4

In sparkling wine production, 'dosage' refers to what?

Accepted Answer

A mixture of wine and sugar added after disgorgement to determine final sweetness

Answer

Dosage (liqueur d'expédition) is a blend of wine and sugar syrup added to Champagne after disgorgement to adjust the final sweetness level before corking.

Question 5

Muscat de Beaumes-de-Venise is which style of wine?

Accepted Answer

Naturally sweet fortified wine (Vin Doux Naturel) from Southern Rhône

Answer

Muscat de Beaumes-de-Venise is a Vin Doux Naturel (VDN) from the Southern Rhône, made by adding grape spirit to fermenting Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains juice to retain natural sweetness.

SOMM - Certified Sommelier Examination Practice Test

SOMM - Certified Sommelier Examination Practice Test

SOMM Spirits and Fortified Wines 2