WSET Level 2 Practice Question · Episode 71
Show Answer & Explanation (try the quiz first)
Practice Question
During viticulture and winemaking, what is the primary chemical reaction where 'Yeast' converts sugar into alcohol and carbon dioxide?
- A. Oxidation
- B. Alcoholic Fermentation
- C. Photosynthesis
- D. Completely removes all carbonation generated during fermentation.
Answer & Explanation
Answer: B. Alcoholic Fermentation Explanation: The creation of wine is a science. The core process is Alcoholic Fermentation, where yeast consumes sugar to produce alcohol. Photosynthesis is the process by which grapevines create sugar using sunlight, and Oxidation is the phenomenon where wine is exposed to air, affecting its quality. It is essential to understand that red wines are fermented with their skins to extract color and tannin (Extraction), while white wines are pressed before fermentation to extract only the juice.
Expert Exam Tip
[Trap]: Do not assume that rosé wine is always made by blending red and white wines. According to EU regulations, blending is generally prohibited (except for Champagne). [Tip]: In the exam, memorize the red winemaking sequence along with 'Extract color and tannin'. This production principle is the key to a perfect score.