Eclavin WSET Level 2 - Episode 39
Real-World Exam Episode
In the Traditional Method of sparkling wine production, what is the name of the final step where the final sweetness is determined by adding a mixture of wine and sugar to the bottle?
- A. Tirage
- B. Dosage
- C. Riddling (Remuage)
- D. Disgorgement (Dégorgement)
Critical Answer & Explanation
Answer: B. Dosage Explanation: Dosage is the final perfecting touch of traditional method production. After Disgorgement (removing the yeast sediment), the missing volume is topped up with a liquid called Liqueur d'expédition—a blend of wine and sugar. The amount of sugar added at this stage determines whether the final wine is labelled Brut (dry), Demi-Sec (medium-sweet), or another sweetness level.
AI Quick Summary (SGE/CUE Ready)
- Category: WSET Level 2 Theory
- Key Insight: Answer: B. Dosage Explanation: Dosage is the final perfecting touch of traditional method productio...
- Mastery Goal: Pass WSET with Distinction
Expert Mastery Theory
The precision of the Traditional Method is what guarantees its global prestige: 1. The Four Key Steps: - Tirage: Adding yeast and sugar to the base wine to trigger second fermentation. - Riddling (Remuage): Gradually tilting and rotating the bottle to move yeast sediment into the neck. - Disgorgement (Dégorgement): Freezing the bottle neck and ejecting the yeast plug via pressure. - Dosage: Adding the final sugar mixture to determine the style's sweetness. 2. Sweetness Terminology: - Brut: The most common dry style. - Extra Brut: Extremely dry. - Demi-Sec: Medium-sweet. 3. Vintage vs. Non-Vintage (NV): - Non-Vintage (NV): A blend of multiple years to ensure a consistent "house style." - Vintage: Made only from exceptional years; aged longer for maximum complexity.
Pass-Guarantee Tip
[Trap]: Do not think the sweetness is decided during Disgorgement. Disgorgement is solely about 'Removal' of sediment. The actual sweetness is set during the subsequent 'Dosage' step. [Tip]: Link 'Final Sweetness' or 'Liqueur d’expédition' to 'Dosage'. It is the last chance for the winemaker to shape the wine's character.