WSET Level 2 Practice Question · Episode 52
Show Answer & Explanation (try the quiz first)
Practice Question
Which low-tannin red grape variety, produced in the 'Beaujolais' region of France, gains flavors of bubblegum, banana, and cinnamon through 'Carbonic Maceration'?
- A. South Africa's Pinotage
- B. France's Gamay
- C. USA's Zinfandel
- D. Blends various grape varieties to ensure a consistent taste every year.
Answer & Explanation
Answer: B. France's Gamay Explanation: Gamay is the heart of Beaujolais. It has thin skins, resulting in pale color and low tannins, but high acidity keeps it very fresh. Notably, wines like Beaujolais Nouveau use Carbonic Maceration to impart characteristic aromas of Bubblegum/Banana. Meanwhile, Pinotage is South Africa’s unique signature, a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault, boasting a heavy body with flavors of blackberry, Coffee, Smoke, and Meat.
Expert Exam Tip
[Trap]: Do not think that Beaujolais wines always have very low acidity and high tannins. In fact, they are celebrated for their light tannins and 'High Acidity'. [Tip]: In the exam, if you see 'Light to Medium body/Red fruit/Bubblegum' combined with 'Beaujolais', look for Gamay. If you see 'Full-bodied/Coffee/Smoke' with 'South Africa', choose Pinotage.