WSET Level 1 Practice Question · Episode 28
Show Answer & Explanation (try the quiz first)
Practice Question
Which of the following is the most accurate description of the typical characteristics of the Sangiovese grape, representative of Italy?
- A. Very low acidity and no tannin, always produced as a sweet white wine.
- B. High acidity and high tannin, with red cherry and dried herb flavors.
- C. No aroma at all, and always grown in very cold Arctic regions.
- D. Always very transparent and full of bubbles, produced only as a sparkling wine.
Answer & Explanation
Answer: B. High acidity and high tannin, with red cherry and dried herb flavors. Explanation: Sangiovese is the soul of Tuscany, Italy. Its high acidity and high tannin give it a very fresh and solid structure on the palate, and it is characterized by red fruit aromas like red cherry and red plum, along with dried herbs like oregano and rosemary. It is the primary grape of 'Chianti' wines.
Key Theory Summary
Sangiovese is the symbol of 'Freshness and Intensity': 1. High Acid & Tannin: Characterized by tannins that grip the mouth and high acidity that makes your mouth water. 2. Aromatic Profile: Red cherry, Plum, Dried herbs, Tea leaf, Earth (when matured). 3. Food Friendly: Its high acidity makes it a fantastic match for Italian dishes based on tomato sauce. 4. Major Regions: Tuscany, Italy (Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino).
Expert Exam Tip
[Trap]: Avoid assuming that "Sangiovese is a soft and light red wine." This variety is a powerful style where 'High Tannin' and 'High Acidity' coexist. [Tip]: In an exam, if words like 'Red Cherry', 'Dried Herbs', and 'Italy' appear, always choose 'Sangiovese.' The completion of Italian gastronomy is Sangiovese.