WSET Level 1 Practice Question · Episode 66
Show Answer & Explanation (try the quiz first)
Practice Question
Which of the following is NOT a primary reason for decanting wine into a glass container?
- A. To remove sediment from the bottom of an aged red wine.
- B. To let the wine contact oxygen to "wake up" the aromas.
- C. To reduce the alcohol level to 0%.
- D. To soften the harsh tannins of a young wine.
Answer & Explanation
Answer: C. To reduce the alcohol level to 0%. Explanation: Decanting is a process to 'optimize' the flavor of the wine, not to remove alcohol. The two main goals are: 1. To separate the bitter 'Sediment' found in aged wines. 2. To allow 'Aeration' (contact with oxygen), which releases trapped aromas and makes tannins feel softer.
Key Theory Summary
Moments when decanting is needed: 1. For Old Wines (Separating sediment): Carefully pour the wine into the decanter, leaving the solids in the bottle. 2. For Young/Bold Wines (Oxygen contact): Decanting high-tannin wines like Cabernet Sauvignon makes them much more approachable. 3. Caution: Delicate white wines or Champagnes can lose their aromas or bubbles if decanted too long.
Expert Exam Tip
[Trap]: Don't assume "all red wines must be decanted." Most daily wines are perfectly fine just being poured into a glass. [Tip]: If 'Remove sediment' or 'Oxygen contact' appears in the exam, the answer is 'Decanting.'