Certified Sommelier Practice Exam 2025 - Free Certified Sommelier Practice Questions and Study Guide

In the context of Champagne sweetness, 'Sec' means that the wine has a certain level of sweetness, but it is not the driest option available. Specifically, 'Sec' translates to 'dry' in French, but it indicates a style that is slightly sweeter than 'Brut,' which is considered the standard for dry Champagne. Sec typically contains between 17 to 32 grams of residual sugar per liter, positioning it in a category that is sweeter than truly dry offerings, yet not excessively so.

The other terms refer to different levels of sweetness: 'Off-Dry' is sweeter than dry but less than medium-sweet, while 'Sweet' indicates a higher level of sugar. 'Bone Dry' would signify a Champagne with very low residual sugar, which does not align with the meaning of 'Sec.' Thus, identifying 'Sec' correctly highlights its position as a drier option, yet acknowledges the sweetness that sets it apart from fully dry Champagnes.