Certified Sommelier Practice Exam

Which of the following is a characteristic of Tawny Port?

1. Aged in glass, ready to drink on release.

2. Aged in wood, sees oxygen and loses its color.

3. Accounts for less than 3% of all port.

4. Produced from fruits sourced in non-declared vintages.

The correct answer is: Aged in wood, sees oxygen and loses its color.

The characteristic that defines Tawny Port is its aging process in wooden casks, which allows for oxidation and evaporation. This interaction with oxygen over time causes the wine to lose its deep red color and transform into a golden-brown hue, leading to the unique flavor profile associated with Tawny Ports. Such wines often exhibit flavors of nuts, caramel, and dried fruit, distinguishing them from other styles of Port. Options related to aging in glass or being ready to drink upon release do not accurately describe Tawny Port, as it is meant to be aged before consumption. Moreover, while it’s true that Tawny Port may come from non-declared vintages, this is more a characteristic of certain types of Port in general rather than a defining trait of Tawny specifically. It is also worth noting that Tawny Port accounts for a larger percentage of Port production than the stated less than 3%, indicating that this choice is misaligned with the actual characteristics of the wine.