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WSET Level 2 Practice Question · Episode 35

L2 • Ep 35
WSET L2 Quiz

What are the typical characteristics of the Nebbiolo variety in a Barolo DOCG wine from Piedmont, Italy?

ALow acidity, low tannin, and deep, opaque purple colour.
BPale ruby colour, high acidity, high tannin, and flavours of rose, tar, and red cherry.
CWarm climate, low alcohol, neutral aromas, and always produced as a sparkling wine.
DHigh sugar, low acidity, and always blended in a Bordeaux style.
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What are the typical characteristics of the Nebbiolo variety in a Barolo DOCG wine from Piedmont, Italy?

Show Answer & Explanation (try the quiz first)

Practice Question

What are the typical characteristics of the Nebbiolo variety in a Barolo DOCG wine from Piedmont, Italy?

  • A. Low acidity, low tannin, and deep, opaque purple colour.
  • B. Pale ruby colour, high acidity, high tannin, and flavours of rose, tar, and red cherry.
  • C. Warm climate, low alcohol, neutral aromas, and always produced as a sparkling wine.
  • D. High sugar, low acidity, and always blended in a Bordeaux style.

Answer & Explanation

Answer: B. Pale ruby colour, high acidity, high tannin, and flavours of rose, tar, and red cherry. Explanation: Nebbiolo is a variety defined by contrast. While its colour is often a Pale Ruby (similar to Pinot Noir), the palate explodes with High Tannin and High Acidity. In prestigious Barolo DOCG, it offers complex aromas of Rose Petals, Tar, dried herbs, and red cherry, with exceptional potential for long ageing.

Expert Exam Tip

[Trap]: Do not assume that "pale colour means low tannin." Nebbiolo can look as light as Pinot Noir but have tannins stronger than Cabernet Sauvignon. [Tip]: Link 'High Tannin/Acid' + 'Rose/Tar' to 'Nebbiolo'. Link 'High Acid/Low Tannin' to 'Barbera'.