WSET Level 2 Practice Question · Episode 22
Show Answer & Explanation (try the quiz first)
Practice Question
Which of the following statements best describes the typical characteristics of a Sauvignon Blanc wine from the Marlborough region of New Zealand?
- A. Low acidity, neutral aromas, and consistently aged for extended periods in new oak.
- B. High acidity, intense aromas (passion fruit, guava, freshly cut grass), and produced using anaerobic winemaking to preserve freshness.
- C. Warm climate profile, high tannins, black fruit flavours (blackcurrant), and exclusively produced as a red wine.
- D. High residual sugar, low alcohol, dried fruit flavours, and always blended in the traditional Bordeaux style.
Answer & Explanation
Answer: B. High acidity, intense aromas (passion fruit, guava, freshly cut grass), and produced using anaerobic winemaking to preserve freshness. Explanation: Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc is world-renowned for its incredibly intense primary aromas. It combines naturally high acidity with explosive notes of tropical fruits like passion fruit and guava, alongside herbaceous hints of freshly cut grass. To protect these vibrant primary aromas from oxidation, winemakers typically employ anaerobic winemaking (shielding the wine from oxygen) and cool-temperature fermentation in stainless steel.
Expert Exam Tip
[Trap]: Do not assume that "All Sauvignon Blanc wines taste only of grass." While herbaceousness is a key trait, Marlborough styles are intensely tropical, and Bordeaux styles can be quite weightly and nutty due to blending and oak. [Tip]: In the L2 exam, if you see the words 'Asparagus', 'Grass', or 'Passion Fruit', immediately link them to 'Sauvignon Blanc.' If the regions 'Sancerre' or 'Marlborough' appear, connect them with 'High Acidity.' Freshness is the ultimate answer.