Certified Sommelier Practice Exam

Which of the following is a characteristic of Vin de Liqueur?

1. It contains a combination of fermented and unfermented must

2. It must be sourced from the Champagne region

3. It is fortified before fermentation

4. It is always made from local grape varieties

The correct answer is: It is always made from local grape varieties

Vin de Liqueur is known for being a fortified wine that typically has a higher sugar content and is made by adding alcohol to the wine. This process stops the fermentation, thus preserving unfermented grape sugars, which contributes to its sweet and rich flavor profile. The defining characteristic among the options presented is that Vin de Liqueur is indeed influenced by local grape varieties, as it is often crafted to reflect the terroir and flavors specific to the region where it is produced. While some Vin de Liqueurs may use a variety of grape types available in local vineyards, the emphasis is on utilizing the unique characteristics of the grape varieties that thrive in those areas. This ties directly to the cultural and historical practices of winemaking in those regions, typically reflecting local traditions and regulations which often dictate that local grapes must be used. This helps to distinguish Vin de Liqueur from other fortified wines that may use a wider array of grape types or are not as tied to specific local representations in their production. Thus, the assertion that Vin de Liqueur is always made from local grape varieties accurately represents the essential nature of this style of wine.