WSET Level 1 Practice Question · Episode 71
Show Answer & Explanation (try the quiz first)
Practice Question
What is the effect of 'Salt' in food on the taste of wine?
- A. It makes the wine taste more bitter and acidic.
- B. It softens the bitterness (tannin) and acidity of the wine and enhances the fruit flavors.
- C. B. It softens the bitterness (tannin) and acidity of the wine and enhances the fruit flavors.
- D. It makes the bubbles in sparkling wine disappear completely.
Answer & Explanation
Answer: B. It softens the bitterness (tannin) and acidity of the wine and enhances the fruit flavors. Explanation: Salt is a wine's best friend. The saltiness in food neutralizes harsh tannins and sharp acidity, making the wine feel much smoother and richer. This is why a bold red wine tastes so much better with salty cheese or steak. In the exam, remember that 'Salt' almost always has a 'positive effect' on the wine's taste.
Key Theory Summary
The magical effects of salt: 1. Reduces Bitterness: Softens the astringent tannin sensation in red wines. 2. Reduces Acidity: Makes the wine's sourness feel less aggressive. 3. Increases Body/Fruit: Highlights and sweetens the wine's fruit flavors. 4. Classic Pairings: The combination of salty blue cheese and sweet dessert wine (Salty & Sweet) is based on this principle.
Expert Exam Tip
[Trap]: Don't think "dry wines don't pair well with salty food." Salt actually makes dry wines taste better. [Tip]: If 'Salt' appears in the exam, connect it to 'Wines taste Better (Lower tannin/acid, Higher fruit).'