Certified Sommelier Practice Exam

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Prepare for the Certified Sommelier Exam with a comprehensive quiz featuring multiple-choice questions and detailed explanations. This resource aids in solidifying your knowledge of wine principles, production methods, and service techniques.

Practice this question and more.

What type of soil is primarily found in the Mosel Valley region?

Clay
Limestone
Slate
Sandy

The correct answer is: Slate

The Mosel Valley region is renowned for its unique geology, with slate being the predominant type of soil found there. Slate is a metamorphic rock that has a high mineral content, particularly in terms of nutrients that benefit the vines. It retains heat well and is excellent for drainage, which is critical in this cooler climate for cultivating grape varieties like Riesling. The slate soil contributes significantly to the terroir of the wines produced in Mosel, imparting distinctive minerality and contributing to the overall acidity and fruit expression of the wines. The region’s steep slopes also enhance sun exposure and help to produce high-quality grapes. While other soil types like clay, limestone, or sandy soils can be found in various wine regions, they are not characteristic of the Mosel, where slate’s combination of heat retention and drainage plays a crucial role in viticulture.