Certified Sommelier Practice Exam

Which grape variety is considered the driest when making Madeira wines?

1. Bual

2. Malmsey

3. Sercial

4. Verdelho

The correct answer is: Sercial

The driest grape variety used in the production of Madeira wines is Sercial. This grape is known for producing a wine that has a high acidity and low residual sugar, resulting in a dry style that showcases crisp citrus and mineral flavors. Sercial-based Madeira wines are often characterized by their refreshing quality and are typically enjoyed as an aperitif. In contrast, the other grape varieties tend to produce sweeter styles of Madeira. For instance, Bual and Malmsey (or Malvasia) are known for their richness and pronounced sweetness, making them considerably sweeter than Sercial. Verdelho falls in a medium-dry category but still retains more residual sugar compared to Sercial. Therefore, the distinctive dry profile of Sercial is what makes it stand out among the other options listed.