Are you ready to take the plunge and practice your WSET level 3? Here are three short written questions:
WSET Level 3 in Wine, Short Written Quests
The questions are the following:
Explain how diurnal range can influence the style and quality of wine in a continental climate.
Describe the role of press wine in red wine production and its potential impact on the final blend.
Identify two challenges associated with organic viticulture and explain how they can affect grape growing.
Answering Tips
- Always remember to link several parts of the study material together.
- Look for the verb in the question and answer accordingly
- Draw a mini-map in your head for the geographical location if the question entails it
- Plan your answer in few seconds before start writing
- Most important tip is to enjoy studying and taking the course and the exam
1. Explain how diurnal range can influence the style and quality of wine in a continental climate.
A large diurnal range (the difference between day and night temperatures) helps grapes retain acidity during cool nights while allowing sugar and flavor development during warm days. This balance results in wines with both freshness and concentration. In continental climates, where diurnal range is typically high, this can lead to high-quality wines with good aging potential and defined varietal character.
2. Describe the role of press wine in red wine production and its potential impact on the final blend.
Press wine is extracted by pressing the grape skins after the free-run wine has been drained. It tends to be deeper in color, higher in tannin, and more astringent. Winemakers may blend small amounts into the free-run wine to add structure and intensity, but excessive use can lead to harshness or imbalance.
3. Identify two challenges associated with organic viticulture and explain how they can affect grape growing.
One challenge is limited use of synthetic pesticides and fungicides, making it harder to control diseases like downy mildew, especially in humid regions. Another is maintaining soil fertility without synthetic fertilizers, which may reduce vine vigor or yield if not managed properly. These challenges can impact grape quantity and quality, requiring more manual labor and vigilance.
Hope you excelled in your answers, good luck for the actual exam!
