Eclavin

WSET Level 2 Practice Question · Episode 42

L2 • Ep 42
WSET L2 Quiz

What natural conditions are essential for producing the ultra-premium sweet wines of Sauternes in Bordeaux, France?

AExtremely cold weather that freezes the grapes on the vine before harvest.
BMisty mornings followed by dry, sunny afternoons to allow the growth of Noble Rot (Botrytis Cinerea).
CArtificial preservation of sugar during rapid fermentation in warm tanks.
DHigh alcohol levels and low acidity to suppress the perception of sugar.
Eclavin | Wine Study
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What natural conditions are essential for producing the ultra-premium sweet wines of Sauternes in Bordeaux, France?

Show Answer & Explanation (try the quiz first)

Practice Question

What natural conditions are essential for producing the ultra-premium sweet wines of Sauternes in Bordeaux, France?

  • A. Extremely cold weather that freezes the grapes on the vine before harvest.
  • B. Misty mornings followed by dry, sunny afternoons to allow the growth of Noble Rot (Botrytis Cinerea).
  • C. Artificial preservation of sugar during rapid fermentation in warm tanks.
  • D. High alcohol levels and low acidity to suppress the perception of sugar.

Answer & Explanation

Answer: B. Misty mornings followed by dry, sunny afternoons to allow the growth of Noble Rot (Botrytis Cinerea). Explanation: Noble Rot—the "Good Rot"—requires a very specific climatic dance. Humid mornings allow the fungus to pierce the grape skins, while dry afternoons stop the rot from becoming destructive (Grey Rot) and encourage water to evaporate. This concentrates the sugars and acids, resulting in the exotic aromas of Honey, Dried Apricot, and Marmalade found in Sauternes.

Expert Exam Tip

[Trap]: Do not think all sweet wines are low in alcohol. Botrytis wines like Sauternes can reach 13–14% abv or higher. [Tip]: Link 'Noble Rot' + 'Honey/Dried Apricot' consistently to Botrytis. This golden nectar is nature's most sophisticated miracle.