Certified Sommelier Practice Exam

What is a common tasting note for Cabernet Sauvignon?

1. Green Bell Pepper

2. Pineapple

3. Blueberry

4. Mint

The correct answer is: Green Bell Pepper

A common tasting note for Cabernet Sauvignon is green bell pepper. This characteristic often arises from the grape's pyrazine compounds, which are more pronounced in cooler growing regions. The presence of this note can reflect a wine's ripeness and the conditions under which the grapes were cultivated. While Cabernet Sauvignon can certainly exhibit a range of fruit flavors, such as dark fruits like blackberry and blueberry, the green bell pepper note is particularly distinctive and frequently associated with the varietal, especially from cooler climates. The other flavors listed, like pineapple and mint, tend to be more linked to different varietals or specific growing conditions that aren't as typical for Cabernet Sauvignon.