The 10 quiz questions
Question 1 : Which wine region in northeastern France is famous for its eponymous sparkling wine?
Possible answers:
- Champagne
- Loire
- Alsace
- Burgundy
Explanation: Champagne can only be produced in the Champagne region, in northeastern France. It is a strictly protected controlled designation of origin (AOC).
Question 2 : Which red grape variety is most planted in Bordeaux?
Possible answers:
- Merlot
- Syrah
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Pinot Noir
Explanation: Merlot represents about 66% of red grape plantings in Bordeaux. It produces supple, fruity wines, often blended with Cabernet Sauvignon.
Question 3 : What do you call a wine that is neither red nor white?
Possible answers:
- Orange
- Clairet
- Gray
- Rosé
Explanation: Rosé is obtained through short maceration of red grapes. Provence is the leading rosé-producing region in France.
Question 4 : Which wine traditionally accompanies foie gras?
Possible answers:
- Côtes-du-Rhône
- Beaujolais
- Sauternes
- Muscadet
Explanation: Sauternes, a sweet white wine from Bordeaux, is the classic pairing with foie gras thanks to its sugar-acidity balance that counterbalances the richness.
Question 5 : What is the ideal serving temperature for red wine?
Possible answers:
- 8-10°C
- 12-14°C
- 16-18°C
- 22-24°C
Explanation: Red wine should be served between 16 and 18°C (61-64°F). Too cold, the tannins seem harsh; too warm, the alcohol dominates and the wine seems heavy.
Question 6 : What is the emblematic grape variety of red Burgundy?
Possible answers:
- Grenache
- Merlot
- Gamay
- Pinot Noir
Explanation: Pinot Noir is the only grape variety allowed for red Burgundy wines. It produces elegant wines with aromas of red fruits and spices.
Question 7 : What does AOC mean in the wine world?
Possible answers:
- Official Marketing Approval
- Controlled Designation of Origin
- Association of Certified Oenologists
- Classic Original Blend
Explanation: Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (Controlled Designation of Origin) guarantees the geographical origin and compliance with strict specifications for wine production.
Question 8 : Which wine is traditionally served with oysters?
Possible answers:
- Pomerol
- Châteauneuf-du-Pape
- Muscadet
- Gewurztraminer
Explanation: Muscadet, a dry white wine from the Loire, is the perfect pairing with oysters thanks to its freshness, minerality, and iodine notes.
Question 9 : What is the traditional vessel for decanting wine called?
Possible answers:
- The flask
- The decanter
- The demijohn
- The pitcher
Explanation: The decanter allows wine to aerate and separates any sediment. It is mainly used for young red wines or old vintages.
Question 10 : Which French new wine is celebrated every third Thursday of November?
Possible answers:
- Beaujolais Villages
- Moulin-à-Vent
- Brouilly
- Beaujolais Nouveau
Explanation: Beaujolais Nouveau goes on sale the third Thursday of November, just a few weeks after harvest. It's a fruity wine to be drunk young.
