WSET Level 2 Practice Question · Episode 34
Show Answer & Explanation (try the quiz first)
Practice Question
What are the typical characteristics of a Sangiovese wine from Chianti Classico DOCG in Tuscany, Italy?
- A. Low acidity, low tannin, and very deep, opaque purple colour.
- B. High acidity, high tannin, flavours of red cherry and dried herbs, and earth notes from oak maturation.
- C. Warm climate, low alcohol, very neutral aromas, and always produced as a sweet wine.
- D. High sugar, low acidity, and always blended in a Bordeaux style.
Answer & Explanation
Answer: B. High acidity, high tannin, flavours of red cherry and dried herbs, and earth notes from oak maturation. Explanation: Sangiovese is the heart of traditional Italian red wine. It is defined by its firm High Tannin that grips the palate and High Acidity that makes the mouth water. Signature aromatics include fresh Red Cherry and Red Plum, combined with Dried Herbs (like Oregano). In the prestigious Chianti Classico DOCG, oak ageing adds elegant layers of Earth and Leather.
Expert Exam Tip
[Trap]: Do not assume Sangiovese is always "soft and light." High-quality Chianti Classico or Brunello will have world-class 'High Tannin' that provides serious structure. [Tip]: On the L2 exam, if descriptors like 'Red Cherry', 'Dried Herbs', or the region 'Tuscany' appear, the answer is 'Sangiovese'.