Wine Classes

Explore the fascinating California wine history and the pivotal events that propelled California wines to a world-class status. Discover the key wine growing regions of California and what makes each one unique. The experience includes a guided wine tasting of 5 different California wines, showcasing the diverse regions and styles of the wine-producing powerhouse. California truly offers a unique wine experience.

There are over 10,000 different wine grape varieties in the world, and Italy grows over half of them! Discover Italy's long and prestigious wine history, and learn about the primary Italian wine regions and their classification system. This experience includes a guided tasting of 5 different Italian wines that highlight the country's important regions. Come and enjoy this captivating wine tour of Italy!

Discover how Germany evolved from a mead-drinking nation to the King of Riesling, reflecting its long and war-torn history. In this overview, we will explore some of the important wine regions and wine grapes of Germany. You will gain insight into the somewhat confusing German Wine Classification System, along with essential German wine terms, and demystify the German wine label. This course includes a guided tasting of 5 different German wines, showcasing the country's unique classification system. By the end, you'll be able to navigate the German Wine section like a pro!

The first wine grapes planted in New Zealand were eaten by the farmer's goats! Discover more about New Zealand's fascinating wine history, along with fun facts about this beautiful country. While New Zealand has encouraged its winemakers to bottle their wines with screwcaps instead of corks, some wonder if this choice is truly better for the environment. Explore how cork is made and whether it is superior to screwcaps. Additionally, there is a brief overview of the major wine regions, along with an in-depth tasting of 5 different New Zealand wines. Come and see why New Zealand is a Southern Star!

Discover how this region evolved from monks creating sacramental wine to becoming one of the largest producers in the world! This course primarily focuses on the four main wine-producing countries in South America. You will receive a brief overview of each country, highlighting their unique histories, key regions, and the wine grapes they cultivate. Additionally, you will taste five different wines that showcase the best of South America. Uncover the Hidden Gems of this continent!

Despite the region being conquered and re-conquered throughout the centuries, Spain has remained a wine-making powerhouse. Discover how this hot and dry peninsula became the second-largest wine-producing country in the world. Learn about Spain's two types of wine classification systems, its key wine-growing regions, and the native grapes that make Spanish wine so special. You will get to taste 5 different wines that highlight the uniqueness of this Iberian Peninsula wine powerhouse.

Starting from vine clippings brought by the first free settlers to becoming the 6th largest wine producer in the world, Australia boasts wine regions as diverse as its stunning landscape. Explore beyond the kangaroo labels to discover the complexity and uniqueness of Australian wines! In this class, you will delve into some Australian wine history, get a brief overview of key wine regions, and understand the differences between Syrah and Shiraz. Additionally, you'll learn about the brilliant marketing strategy of Yellow Tail that successfully placed Australia on the USA wine map. You'll have the opportunity to taste 5 different wines that showcase some of the best regions.

Discover the All But California (ABC) of the top three most influential US wine regions, excluding California. Take a quiz to test your knowledge of US wine history, including pivotal events that shaped California wine history and influenced the rise and fall of US wine production. You will explore the top three wine-producing states outside of California and delve into their unique wine regions and histories. Additionally, you will learn about Colorado's emerging wine region, which may inspire you to embark on a weekend wine tour around Palisade! The course includes a guided tasting of five US wines.

Rosé has come a long way since its uninspiring White Zinfandel days, but the history of rosé wines goes back many centuries! Learn how this vibrant beverage began and evolved from a cheap, sticky wine to the food-friendly, sophisticated drink it is today. Discover the four different methods of making rosé wine and what the varied shades of pink can reveal about its character. Includes a guided tasting of 5 different rosés.

This course begins with a brief history of Champagne, exploring the origins of this famous sparkling wine and its discovery. You will learn how to decode a Champagne label (did you know extra-dry is sweeter than Brut?!), gain insights into the various sparkling wine types, and discover how those wines achieve their delightful bubbles! Includes an in-depth tasting of 5 different sparkling wines with proper opening and serving instructions.

This course begins with a look at the long and noble history of Port production in Portugal. We go over the five primary Port wine grapes that make this beverage so unique and then explore all of the many Port wine styles. You will learn how best to serve and drink Port wine, alongside some illustrious traditions that have evolved around this regal beverage. Includes a tasting of 5 different Port wines representing each style.

There are many ways to create delightful dessert wines, and this course primarily emphasizes the technique of removing water from the grapes to enhance the sugar concentration in the juice. You'll gain insights into dessert wine styles, explore the various methods of production, and uncover the unique history and traditions tied to each approach. Includes an in-depth tasting of 5 different dessert wines with guidance on serving and pairing.

The appreciation of fine spirits can extend well beyond wine — whisky embodies many of the same skills and craftsmanship found in wine, making it an exciting topic for enthusiasts. In this course, you'll receive a brief history of whisky, delve into its production process, and explore the main types and regions of whisky. Includes an in-depth guided tasting of four different types of whisky.

"I don't know what wine to order with my meal!" This course covers essential food pairing basics, including important considerations and simple guidelines to help you make thoughtful and successful pairings that enhance any meal. For the best experience, a pre-event food pairing consultation is recommended, allowing us to suggest 5 different wines that will perfectly complement the food at your event.

Wine and chocolate share many similarities, but an incorrect pairing can lead to a clash of flavors rather than a harmonious blend. This class will briefly explore the history of chocolate and its production process. You'll discover the primary types of chocolate and gain insights into effective wine pairing. The tasting session includes 5 different chocolates paired with 5 distinct wines to enhance each chocolate type.

Charcuterie has undergone a significant transformation from the simple working-class lunch of the past to the elaborate meat and cheese boards we enjoy today. You will learn about the humble roots of this popular party platter, gain basic knowledge of the types of meats and cheeses commonly found, and discover the essential elements that make up a good charcuterie board — plus wine pairing guidelines that elevate your board into a sophisticated meal.

How did eggnog ever get started? What do people drink when they go Wassailing? This course uncovers the history and traditions of some of our favorite boozy winter beverages. Enjoy a tasting of 5 different holiday beverages as you learn about their long holiday traditions. This is the perfect event to share with friends and family as they gather for the Holidays!

Does the thought of being responsible for providing the wine for Thanksgiving dinner fill you with dread? This course will guide you through essential food pairing principles tailored specifically for the traditional Thanksgiving meal. You'll also explore a brief history of American wine during the Colonial period and answer the intriguing question: "Did the Pilgrims drink wine at the first Thanksgiving?" Five wines provided for tasting that complement your entire Thanksgiving gathering.