Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Level 3 Award in Wine Practice Exam

In southern France, the two winds that have a significant impact on viticulture are the Tramontane and the Mistral. The Mistral is a strong, cold wind that blows from the north and is known for its ability to lower humidity levels and reduce the risk of fungal diseases in vineyards. This wind can also help to temper the heat during the warm summer months, promoting better ripening of the grapes.

The Tramontane is another northern wind that, like the Mistral, can contribute to a drier climate in the wine regions of southern France. It is less intense than the Mistral but still plays a role in maintaining favorable growing conditions for the vines. Together, these winds help to create a unique microclimate that is beneficial for grape growing, influencing the quality and characteristics of the wines produced in this region.

In contrast, the other options mention winds that either do not occur in southern France or are not significant influences on the viticulture there. For example, the Sirocco is a warm wind that originates from the Sahara and affects Mediterranean regions, but it is not as characteristic of the southern French landscape as the Tramontane and Mistral. Similarly, Bora and Chinook are winds associated more with