WSET Level 2 Practice Question · Episode 79

L2 • Ep 79

WSET L2 Quiz

In the 'Sauternes' region of Bordeaux, France, what is the name of the fungus essential for high-quality sweet wine production, which punctures grape skins to evaporate water and concentrate sugars?

AOxidation

BNoble Rot (Botrytis Cinerea)

CFrost

DAlways brewed solely from 100% Pinot Noir grapes.

Eclavin | Wine Study

@eclavin_official

In the 'Sauternes' region of Bordeaux, France, what is the name of the fungus essential for high-quality sweet wine production, which punctures grape skins to evaporate water and concentrate sugars?

Show Answer & Explanation (try the quiz first)

Practice Question

In the 'Sauternes' region of Bordeaux, France, what is the name of the fungus essential for high-quality sweet wine production, which punctures grape skins to evaporate water and concentrate sugars?

A. Oxidation
B. Noble Rot (Botrytis Cinerea)
C. Frost
D. Always brewed solely from 100% Pinot Noir grapes.

Answer & Explanation

Answer: B. Noble Rot (Botrytis Cinerea) Explanation: Noble Rot is a desirable fungus that develops under specific climatic conditions with damp mornings followed by dry afternoons. It pierces the grape skins, allowing water to evaporate, which concentrates both sugar and acidity while adding complex notes of honey, apricot, and dried fruit. Sauternes and Hungary's Tokaji are legendary examples of this 'Liquid Gold'. Note that Icewine uses a different method by freezing grapes to remove water.

Expert Exam Tip

[Trap]: Do not assume all sweet wines are 'Fortified'. Sauternes and Tokaji achieve sweetness through natural concentration without added alcohol. [Tip]: In the exam, link 'Honey/Dried Apricot/Botrytis' with Sauternes, and 'Consistent high acidity/Pure fruit' with Icewine.