Alsace Quiz - Sommelier Level 1 Test
What role do the Vosges Mountains play in Alsace's climate?
A) They increase rainfall.
B) They provide a barrier against cold winds.
C) They create a colder climate.
D) They have no significant impact.
How does the Rhine River influence Alsace's climate?
A) It contributes to heavy rains.
B) It moderates the climate.
C) It leads to more frosts.
D) It decreases sun exposure.
Which two main areas make up Alsace?
A) Bas-Rhin and Haut-Rhin.
B) Côte d'Or and Beaujolais.
C) Bordeaux and Burgundy.
D) Champagne and Lorraine.
Where are the best vineyards in Alsace typically located?
A) In the valleys.
B) On the slopes of the Vosges Mountains.
C) Along the Rhine River.
D) In flat areas.
What variety of soils can be found in Alsace's vineyards?
A) Only limestone.
B) Only sandstone.
C) Granite, limestone, and sandstone.
D) Only clay.
Which grape is noted for its complexity in Alsace?
A) Pinot Noir.
B) Chardonnay.
C) Riesling.
D) Cabernet Sauvignon.
What does 'Alsace Grand Cru AOC' signify?
A) Basic level wines.
B) Sparkling wines.
C) High-quality wines from specific vineyards.
D) Wines made from late-harvest grapes.
What are 'Vendange Tardive' wines?
A) Dry wines.
B) Sweet, late-harvest wines.
C) Sparkling wines.
D) Wines made from old vine grapes.
What does 'Cuvée Réserve' indicate on a wine label?
A) Sparkling wine.
B) A special selection by the winemaker.
C) Higher quality than basic appellation wines.
D) Made from botrytis-affected grapes.
What does 'Élevage en fût de chêne' mean?
A) Fermented in steel tanks.
B) Aged in oak barrels.
C) Blended from different vineyards.
D) Made from organically grown grapes.
Which grape variety in Alsace is known for its spicy aromas?
A) Pinot Gris.
B) Sylvaner.
C) Gewürztraminer.
D) Muscat.
'Crémant d'Alsace AOC' refers to which type of wine?
A) Red wine.
B) Dry white wine.
C) Sparkling wine.
D) Sweet dessert wine.
What distinguishes 'Sélection de Grains Nobles' wines?
A) Made from the first press of grapes.
B) Produced from botrytis-affected grapes.
C) Aged in new oak barrels.
D) Blended from multiple vineyards.
Which of the following terms refers to wines made from old vine grapes?
A) Cuvée Spéciale.
B) Vieilles Vignes.
C) Clos.
D) Domaine.
What is the main characteristic of the Bas-Rhin area in Alsace?
A) Known for its red wines.
B) It has a cooler climate compared to Haut-Rhin.
C) It is mostly flat terrain.
D) Focused exclusively on sparkling wine production.
What does the term 'Domaine' indicate about a wine in Alsace?
A) It is a single-vineyard wine.
B) It comes from the highest-quality grapes.
C) It is produced and vinified by the same entity.
D) It is an experimental wine variety.
Which soil type is NOT commonly found in Alsace vineyards?
A) Granite.
B) Clay.
C) Sandstone.
D) Volcanic ash.
What is a key feature of wines labeled 'Cuvée Spéciale'?
A) They are always white wines.
B) They are a special selection by the winemaker.
C) They come from the oldest vines.
D) They are made using traditional methods only.
For which appellation is Alsace most famous?
A) Alsace AOC.
B) Bordeaux AOC.
C) Champagne AOC.
D) Alsace Grand Cru AOC.
Which factor primarily contributes to the warm and dry climate favorable for viticulture in Alsace? A) Proximity to the Mediterranean Sea.
B) The Vosges Mountains' protection.
C) High altitude of the vineyards.
D) Influence of the Atlantic Ocean.
