Toscane

Question 1

What grape variety is primarily used in Brunello di Montalcino?

Answer 1

100% Brunello

Brunello is a clone of Sangiovese known for producing high-quality wines.

Question 2

What is the minimum percentage of Sangiovese required for Chianti?

Answer 2

min 70% Sangiovese

Chianti wines can include other grape varieties but must meet this minimum requirement.

Question 3

What region does Tuscany extend from?

Answer 3

Ligurian Sea in the west to the foothills of the Apennine Mountains in the east

This geographical span influences the wine styles produced in the region.

Question 4

Identify the climate categories affecting Tuscan wines.

Answer 4

Continental/Maritime

The maritime influence is stronger due to the proximity to the coast.

Question 5

What are the two main types of red grape varieties in Tuscany?

Answer 5

• Sangiovese
• Brunello/Sangiovese Grosso

Other notable varieties include Prugnolo Gentile, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc.

Question 6

What is the primary soil type found in Montalcino?

Answer 6

Galestro (clay-schist)

Montalcino also has clay and marine sediments at lower elevations.

Question 7

What does ‘Superiore’ indicate on a Tuscan wine label?

Answer 7

Increased alcohol level required

This term signifies a higher quality standard for the wine.

Question 8

What is the aging requirement for Brunello di Montalcino?

Answer 8

• “Normale” 5 years minimum (2 years in oak)
• “Riserva” 6 years minimum (2 years in oak)

Question 9

Fill in the blank: Chianti Classico must contain a minimum of _______ Sangiovese.

Answer 9

80%

This minimum percentage is crucial for the classification of Chianti Classico.

Question 10

What is Vin Santo known for?

Answer 10

Dried grapes Sweet dessert wine
Trebbiano, Malvasia

This wine is traditionally made from dried grapes and is often served as a dessert wine.

Question 11

What is a key characteristic of Sangiovese-based wines?

Answer 11

Sangiovese wines are known for their vibrant acidity, assertive tannins, and a complex flavor profile that includes red fruit (cherry, plum, raspberry), earthy notes (leather, tobacco), and often, a hint of herbs.

Question 12

True or False: Gran Selezione is a classification that has specific rules.

Answer 12

False

Gran Selezione exists but does not have detailed regulations like other classifications.

Question 13

Name two iconic producers of Brunello di Montalcino.

Answer 13

• Biondi Santi
• Soldera

Other notable producers include Antinori and Banfi.

Question 14

What type of wine is typically paired with Chianti?

Answer 14

Dry red wines

Chianti pairs well with a variety of foods, especially Italian cuisine.

Question 15

What does the term ‘Riserva’ indicate on a wine label?

Answer 15

Longer aging times required

This term signifies that a wine has been aged longer than standard regulations.

Question 16

What is the significance of the Gallo Nero symbol?

Answer 16

It represents Chianti Classico bottles

The black rooster is a historical symbol for the Chianti Classico region.

Question 17

What are the two main types of white grape varieties in Tuscany?

Answer 17

• Trebbiano
• Vermentino

Vernaccia is also an important white variety in the region.

Question 18

What classification is Rosso di Montalcino?

Answer 18

DOCG

This indicates a high-quality designation for wines from the Montalcino area.

Question 19

Fill in the blank: The wine law classifications include IGP, DOC, and _______.

Answer 19

DOCG

These classifications help to regulate the quality and authenticity of wines.

Question 20

What distinguishes a Super Tuscan wine?

Answer 20

Can be Bordeaux grape variety blends

Super Tuscan wines often include non-indigenous grape varieties and are known for their high quality.