In finished table wines, what is the typical final alcohol content (expressed as % by weight, not % by volume)?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 8–13 % by weight

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Alcohol content in wine can be expressed as percent by volume (% v/v) or percent by weight (% w/w). Many labels show % v/v (e.g., 11–14 % v/v), which is a bit higher numerically than the equivalent % by weight. This question specifically asks for the typical % by weight range for table wines.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Standard table wines (not fortified) are considered.
  • Conversion between % v/v and % w/w means % w/w is lower for the same alcohol level.


Concept / Approach:
A typical wine alcohol content of about 10–14 % v/v corresponds roughly to 8–13 % w/w because ethanol is less dense than water. Therefore, the expected range by weight falls near 8–13 % for most non-fortified wines.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Recall typical table wine alcohol levels ~10–14 % v/v.Convert conceptually to % w/w, yielding a slightly lower numeric range.Match to the offered ranges and choose 8–13 % by weight.


Verification / Alternative check:
Laboratory analyses report % alcohol both ways; for the same wine, the % w/w figure trails the % v/v figure, matching the 8–13 % w/w expectation.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • 6–9 % w/w: too low for typical table wines; aligns with some light or partially fermented beverages.
  • 13–15 % w/w: more consistent with stronger or fortified styles.
  • Both (a) and (b): cannot both be correct.
  • 2–4 % w/w: far too low for wine.


Common Pitfalls:
Confusing % v/v with % w/w; always check the basis when comparing figures.


Final Answer:
8–13 % by weight

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