Certified Sommelier Practice Exam

Which method is used primarily for sparkling wines like Prosecco?

1. Transfer Method

2. Charmat Process

3. Traditional Method

4. Carbonic Maceration

The correct answer is: Charmat Process

The Charmat Process is the correct choice for the primary method used in the production of sparkling wines like Prosecco. This method involves fermenting the wine in large stainless steel tanks instead of individual bottles, which is a hallmark of the traditional method used for other sparkling wines, such as Champagne. In the Charmat Process, after the primary fermentation, a secondary fermentation occurs in these tanks with the addition of sugar and yeast, creating carbon dioxide that becomes trapped in the liquid, resulting in the sparkling quality. This method is favored for Prosecco because it retains the fresh, fruity characteristics of the grape, particularly the Glera variety used in Prosecco, allowing for a lighter, more aromatic profile that is often sought after in these wines. The other methods listed, while they each have their own unique roles in wine production, do not specifically align with the characteristics or production needs of Prosecco. For instance, the Traditional Method is more complex and typically involves aging in bottles, which is not typical for Prosecco production. Carbonic Maceration, while a technique used for certain still wines, does not create the effervescence required for sparkling wines. The Transfer Method is also used in sparkling wine production but is less common for