WSET Level 1 Practice Question · Episode 97
Show Answer & Explanation (try the quiz first)
Practice Question
Which of the following is INCORRECT regarding sparkling and fortified wines?
- A. Champagne produces bubbles through a second fermentation inside the bottle.
- B. Fortified wine is wine to which a distilled spirit like brandy is added during or after fermentation.
- C. Sherry and Port are representative fortified wines.
- D. All sparkling wines must be produced as sweet dessert wines only.
Answer & Explanation
Answer: D. All sparkling wines must be produced as sweet dessert wines only. Explanation: - Champagne (True): The 'Traditional Method' involves bottle fermentation. - Fortified (True): Alcohol is added to 'strengthen' the wine. - Sweetness (False): Sparkling wines come in many styles, from bone-dry (Brut) to sweet (Demi-Sec). Most quality sparklings are dry.
Key Theory Summary
Specialized Wine Styles: 1. Sparkling (Method): Traditional (Bottle fermentation) vs. Tank (Large container). 2. Fortified (Strength): Adding spirit to reach 15-22% ABV. 3. Sweetness Scale: Brut (Dry) -> Extra-Dry -> Dry -> Demi-Sec (Sweet).
Expert Exam Tip
[Trap]: Don't think "all fortified wines are sweet." Some styles of Sherry (like Fino) are bone-dry! [Tip]: 'Fortified' always means 'extra alcohol added.'