Certified Sommelier Practice Exam

What is the main style of Vendage Tardive (VT) wines?

1. Light and crisp

2. Rich, full-bodied

3. Effervescent and dry

4. Sour and tart

The correct answer is: Rich, full-bodied

The main style of Vendage Tardive (VT) wines is indeed rich and full-bodied. These wines are typically produced from grapes that have been allowed to over-ripen on the vine, often affected by noble rot (Botrytis cinerea) or harvested late in the season. This process concentrates the sugars, acids, and flavors in the grapes, resulting in a wine that is both opulent and complex. Vendage Tardive wines are often characterized by their intense fruit flavors, higher residual sugars, and a noticeable viscosity, which contribute to a lush mouthfeel. They pair wonderfully with rich desserts, cheeses, or can even be enjoyed on their own as a luxurious sipper. In contrast, the other options describe styles of wine that do not align with what Vendage Tardive represents. Light and crisp wines are typically more refreshing and less concentrated, while effervescent and dry wines focus on bubbles and acidity. Sour and tart wines suggest a lack of maturity that would not be befitting wines made from late-harvest grapes like those in the Vendage Tardive category.