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 southern Australian region is famous for "Terra Rosa" soil and cooler climate producing balanced wines?

Eden Valley
Barossa Valley
Coonawarra
McLaren Vale

The correct answer is: Coonawarra

Coonawarra is renowned for its distinctive "Terra Rosa" soil, which is a rich, red, clay-loam topsoil that overlays a limestone base, creating ideal conditions for viticulture. This unique soil type plays a crucial role in the quality of fruit produced in the region, particularly for grape varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon. The cooler climate of Coonawarra, influenced by its proximity to the Southern Ocean, helps in producing balanced wines with good acidity, depth, and complexity. This climate works well for extending the growing season, allowing grapes to develop concentration and flavor without excessive sugar levels. While other regions such as Barossa Valley and Eden Valley are known for their distinct characteristics, it is Coonawarra that truly stands out for its exceptional terroir and climate that support the production of elegant wines.