Certified Sommelier Practice Exam

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Prepare for the Certified Sommelier Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each offering hints and explanations. Elevate your wine knowledge and get ready for your certification!

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What is the generic term used to describe sparkling wine?

Spumante
Frizzante
Cava
Moscato

The correct answer is: Spumante

The term "spumante" refers specifically to fully sparkling wine, typically characterized by a significant level of effervescence due to carbonation. This classification is predominantly used in Italian wine terminology, where "spumante" distinguishes sparkling wines that undergo full fermentation in a controlled environment to develop their bubbles, such as Prosecco or Asti Spumante. While "frizzante" also describes a type of sparkling wine, it indicates a lower level of effervescence compared to "spumante," which is why it is not the generic term used to refer to all sparkling wines. "Cava" is a specific type of sparkling wine from Spain, primarily made using the traditional method of fermentation in the bottle, which also does not encompass all sparkling wines. "Moscato" refers to a sweet wine that can be either still or sparkling, but it is not a term that generically describes sparkling wines overall. Thus, "spumante" appropriately serves as the broader term that encompasses fully sparkling wines, making it the correct choice.