Sure, but that's what code samples are for. If I send you code samples, and I can't explain to you what they mean or how I built them, or describe a variation of your choice about them, then you can assume that I don't know what I'm talking about. You can do this over the phone. There are endless, quality, revealing questions you can ask about provided code samples that are far, far, far, far superior to asking the equivalent of reciting the ABCs.
No code sample? Get some. Won't provide some? Don't bring them in for an interview.
The point I'm making is that you can pre-qualify candidates in a LOT of ways before you even bring someone into the office. If I get into your office and you ask me dumb, basic questions, then you haven't screened me effectively. You should theoretically be able to make those determinations before I ever step through the front door of your office.