Central and Southern Italy
1. Tuscany is often associated with Sangiovese - what are the other major grape varieties used in Tuscany and what are the most famous regions for these varieties?
2. Regarding Sangiovese, describe the famous regions (and subregions) within Tuscany that are known for quality Sangiovese production. Consider also, what are the allowable minor varieties.
3. Is this term “super Tuscan” legally defined? What is it? Why was this term created? Provide a few notable or iconic Super Tuscan wines.
4. What is the famous dessert wine of Tuscany? How is it made? What is a great food pairing for this wine? Is there another country that makes a wine of the same name?
5. What are the geographic and climatic conditions in Umbria? What are the most notable regions for red wine? How can we compare these grapes to other more familiar Italian varieties?
6. What is the most notable white variety produced in the Marche and what DOCG zones have been designated for its production? If we were in the Marche, what kind of food would we pair with this wine? What wines could we compare this to for a guest unfamiliar with this grape?
7. Give a detailed history of Abruzzo including key producers. What are the major DOCG zones? What types of wines do they make?
8. What are the major red and white wines produced in Campania? What are the DOCG regions for the Aglianico variety? What is Aglianico similar to? How long is it aged and why?
Alsace, Jura and Savoie
1. What was the 30 years war and how did it affect Alsace?
2. What is Vendage Tardive? What is Selection de Grain Nobles? How do these styles represent Alsace within the region and around the world? Benefits and difficulties of the importance of these styles.
3. Research the history of Alsace, what are some classic food and wine pairings and how is the cuisine reflected throughout history.
4. What is vin jaune? What are the laws for the production of vin jaune? To what dishes could it be paired- regional and otherwise.
5. What is Macvin du Jura? How is it produced, using which varietie(s) and how does it compare to other such wines in the world.
6. What is Crémant du Jura? Production, laws, etc.
7. Name a few factors that serve to moderate Savoie’s continental climate.
8. What are the four communes which can attach their names to the greater Roussette de Savoie AOP?
Eastern Mediterranean
1. What is Kosher wine?
2. What are the most important grape varieties grown in Israel?
3. Describe the history of Lebanon as it relates to wine production.
4. What is Commandaria?
5. Describe the climate in the areas of Turkey where wine production occurs.
6. Give a profile of Château Musar.
7. Describe the Bekaa Valley.
8. What is arak?