WSET Level 1 Practice Question · Episode 55
Show Answer & Explanation (try the quiz first)
Practice Question
Which of the following best describes the typical characteristics of a red wine made from Pinot Noir?
- A. Deep color, high tannins, and full-bodied.
- B. Relatively pale color, low tannins, and high acidity.
- C. Always dominated by coconut and vanilla aromas from oak ageing.
- D. B. Relatively pale color, low tannins, and high acidity.
Answer & Explanation
Answer: B. Relatively pale color, low tannins, and high acidity. Explanation: Pinot Noir is a delicate, thin-skinned variety. Since color and tannins come from the skins, Pinot Noir wines are often pale ruby in color and have low levels of mouth-drying tannins. Instead, they boast high acidity and elegant red fruit flavors like strawberry, raspberry, and red cherry. It prefers cool or moderate climates.
Key Theory Summary
Pinot Noir is considered the pinnacle of 'Elegance': 1. Appearance: Pale to Medium Ruby (Light color). 2. Tannin: Low to Medium (Smooth and soft). 3. Acidity: High (Fresh and vibrant). 4. Flavors: Red Fruit (Strawberry, Raspberry, Red Cherry). 5. Region: Burgundy, France, is known as the world's premier region for this grape.
Expert Exam Tip
[Trap]: Don't think "all red wines are dark and bitter." Pinot Noir has the lightness and freshness of many white wines. [Tip]: If you see 'Red Fruit', 'Thin Skin', or 'Low Tannin' in an exam, the answer is 100% 'Pinot Noir.'