Whether you're a passionate wine lover, an aspiring sommelier, or just curious about one of the world's most prestigious wine regions, this quiz is the perfect starting point.

Bordeaux, synonymous with wine excellence, offers a rich tapestry of history, tradition, and diverse winemaking practices. In this Level 1 Test, we've curated a selection of questions designed to challenge and enlighten you about the basics of Bordeaux – from the influential 1855 classification to the distinctive characteristics of its varietals and terroirs.

What is the role of the Gulf Stream in Bordeaux's climate?

a) It increases annual rainfall.

b) It causes excessive sunshine.

c) It moderates temperatures and provides sufficient humidity.

d) It leads to mild winters with minimal frost.

What soil type predominates in the Left Bank of Bordeaux, and which grape variety thrives?

a) Clay - Merlot
b) Limestone - Cabernet Franc
c) Gravel - Cabernet Sauvignon
d) Sand - Petit Verdot

Which soil type characterizes Bordeaux's Right Bank, and which grape is more predominant here?

a) Gravel - Cabernet Sauvignon

b) Clay and Limestone - Merlot

c) Sand - Malbec

d) Limestone - Cabernet Franc

What is the key factor in developing noble rot in the Sauternes region?

a) Excessive sunshine

b) High-altitude vineyards

c) Mists from nearby rivers followed by warm afternoons

d) High humidity throughout the year

What harvesting methods are used in Bordeaux, and which is preferred for quality at prestigious châteaux?

a) Mechanical harvesting only

b) Hand-picking only

c) Both hand-picking and mechanical, with hand-picking preferred for quality

d) Both hand-picking and mechanical, with mechanical harvesting preferred for efficiency

Why is the size of a barrique important in Bordeaux winemaking?

a) It determines the wine's color.

b) It influences the degree of oak flavor.

c) It affects the fermentation speed.

d) It controls the temperature of the wine.

Which grapes are primarily used for red wine production in Saint-Émilion?

a) Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot

b) Merlot and Cabernet Franc

c) Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc

d) Muscadelle and Cabernet Sauvignon

What are Sauternes and Barsac famous for producing?

a) Powerful red wines

b) Lusciously sweet white wines

c) Dry white wines

d) Sparkling wines

Which château was added to the Premier Cru (First Growth) category in 1973, altering the original 1855 Classification?

a) Château Pichon Longueville

b) Château Mouton Rothschild

c) Château Léoville-Las Cases

d) Château Ducru-Beaucaillou

What is the classification of Château Latour in Pauillac?

a) First Growth

b) Second Growth

c) Third Growth

d) Fourth Growth

Which châteaux in Saint-Estèphe is not classified under the 1855 Classification?

a) Château Calon-Ségur

b) Château Montrose

c) Château Cos d'Estournel

d) Château Phélan Ségur

Which château was promoted from Premiers Grands Crus Classés B to A in the 2022 Saint-Émilion classification?

a) Château Figeac

b) Château Pavie

c) Château Canon

d) Château Valandraud

Which of these renowned châteaux opted out of the 2022 Saint-Émilion classification?

a) Château Figeac and Château Pavie

b) Château Canon and Château Canon La Gaffeliere

c) Château Ausone and Château Cheval Blanc

d) Château Troplong Mondot and Château Trottevieille

Sommelier Quiz - Bordeaux Level 1 Test