Certified Sommelier Practice Exam

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Prepare for the Certified Sommelier Exam with multiple choice questions, flashcards, and detailed explanations to master wine knowledge and tasting skills. Ace your exam!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

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Which characteristic makes Sonoma County notable in wine production?

Larger area than Napa Valley
Exclusive use of old vine Zinfandel
Only produces sparkling wine
Highly urbanized growing regions

The correct answer is: Larger area than Napa Valley

Sonoma County is indeed notable in wine production largely due to its larger geographical area compared to Napa Valley. This vast expanse allows for a diverse range of microclimates and soil types, which contributes to the variety of wine styles produced in the region. Sonoma County is known for its variety of wine grapes, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, and Cabernet Sauvignon, which thrive due to the diverse conditions present. The size and geographic diversity enable winemakers to experiment with different varietals and styles, leading to a rich tapestry of wines that showcase the terroir. Regarding the other options, the exclusive use of old vine Zinfandel does not accurately represent the full breadth of Sonoma's wine production, as multiple varietals are cultivated. Similarly, the notion that Sonoma only produces sparkling wine is misleading, as the region is known for a broad range of both still and sparkling wines. Lastly, while there are urbanized areas within Sonoma County, the presence of highly urbanized growing regions is not a defining characteristic of its wine production landscape; rural and scenic vineyard landscapes are much more prevalent throughout the county, supporting its identity as a significant wine-producing region.