Just a quick one. My WSET Advanced Test was tonight and it was hard. I crushed the blind tasting, correctly identiying a Chilean Sauvignon Blanc and a Barossa Shiraz. I lost a few points on the multiple choice, but generally did well. For example, I remembered Baga (black grape from Portugal) but forgot Viura (white blending grape from Rioja). The short answers were pretty good, but I lost a few points on the climate conditions of South Africa and the effect of old vines on Pinotage. I also had to Bullshit an essay on the difference between Rutherglen Muscat and Beaumes de Venise. For my money, you shouldn't have a major essay based on a book chapter called "Other Sweet Wines."
But in all, I felt pretty good. Dunno if I got enough points to pass with distinction, but I'm pretty sure I passed.
Next up, I prepare for the French Wine Scholar Exam, a hideously hard test full of French Wine Law questions. Those Socialists have a rule for Everything!
I'm alo going to start my reading for September's WSET Diploma class on Viticulture and Vinification.
YES, I ama geek and I love to study! Deal with it!
Hurrah!
ReplyDeleteAsking as one of those rare souls who likes the taste of Band-Aids in her wine, what is the effect of old vines on Pinotage?
ReplyDeleteJust curious if you took the French Wine Scholar Exam. Hope you did, as I am thinking about doing that as well.
ReplyDeleteHit me back with an email if you could. Thanks.
T. Zinselmeyer
tom@zwineservices.com