Certified Sommelier Practice Exam

Which of the following vintage requirements applies to South Africa's Wine of Origin System?

1. Must be at least 75% from the stated year

2. Must be at least 85% from the stated year

3. Must be 100% from the stated year

4. Must be labeled with the season of harvest

The correct answer is: Must be at least 85% from the stated year

In South Africa's Wine of Origin System, a wine must contain at least 85% of the grapes from the stated vintage in order to be labeled with that vintage year. This requirement ensures a higher degree of authenticity concerning the wine's production date and reflects the characteristics of the growing season in which the grapes were harvested. The 85% rule is significant because it strikes a balance between maintaining quality and allowing for subtle variations in production. While some other wine regions may have stricter rules, like requiring 100% of grapes from the stated year, the 85% standard allows winemakers the flexibility to blend in small quantities from other years, which can help achieve desired flavor profiles or compensate for less favorable harvests. The other options don't align with South Africa's regulations regarding vintage labeling. Understanding these rules contributes to the overall appreciation and recognition of South African wines on the global stage.