Certified Sommelier Practice Exam

Which area of Oregon is known for its old vines and Zinfandel production?

1. Rogue Valley

2. Willamette Valley

3. Applegate Valley

4. Columbia River

The correct answer is: Rogue Valley

The Rogue Valley is recognized for its old vines and Zinfandel production due to its unique climate and soil composition that are well-suited for growing this varietal. This region's warmer temperatures compared to other areas of Oregon foster the rich, ripe fruit characteristics that Zinfandel typically exhibits, allowing winemakers to produce high-quality wines that showcase the varietal’s bold flavors. Additionally, the presence of old vines in this area contributes to the complexity and depth of the wines produced, as older vines tend to yield more concentrated grapes, resulting in wines with greater character and nuance. In contrast, other regions such as the Willamette Valley are more famous for varieties like Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris, while the Applegate Valley is emerging but is not as widely recognized specifically for Zinfandel. The Columbia River area also has a diverse range of wine production, but it does not have the same historical reputation for Zinfandel as the Rogue Valley does.