WSET Level 2 Practice Question · Episode 88

L2 • Ep 88

WSET L2 Quiz

Among 'Sherry', the fortified wines of Spain, which style is fortified to about 15% abv and undergoes biological aging under a layer of yeast called 'Flor', resulting in flavors of fresh apple and almond?

AOloroso

BFino

CPedro Ximénez (PX)

DCompletely removes all carbonation generated during fermentation.

Eclavin | Wine Study

@eclavin_official

Among 'Sherry', the fortified wines of Spain, which style is fortified to about 15% abv and undergoes biological aging under a layer of yeast called 'Flor', resulting in flavors of fresh apple and almond?

Show Answer & Explanation (try the quiz first)

Practice Question

Among 'Sherry', the fortified wines of Spain, which style is fortified to about 15% abv and undergoes biological aging under a layer of yeast called 'Flor', resulting in flavors of fresh apple and almond?

A. Oloroso
B. Fino
C. Pedro Ximénez (PX)
D. Completely removes all carbonation generated during fermentation.

Answer & Explanation

Answer: B. Fino Explanation: Fino is the freshest style of Sherry. A layer of yeast called 'Flor' protects the wine from contact with oxygen, preserving its bright color and aromas of almonds and herbs. In contrast, Oloroso is fortified to a higher level (17% or more) to prevent Flor growth, leading to oxidative aging that yields brown color and nutty flavors. PX is celebrated for its extreme sweetness.

Expert Exam Tip

[Trap]: Do not assume all fortified wines are always sweet. Dry fortified wines like Fino Sherry are highly significant in the category. [Tip]: In the exam, link 'Autolysis/Biscuit' with the traditional method, and 'Oxidative/Nutty' with Oloroso Sherry or Tawny Port.