Wine Fundamentals

Do you want to learn about wine, but don’t know where to start? 

We can relate. Build your confidence with wine in this fun, interactive class designed for both beginners and curious enthusiasts. You'll learn the fundamentals of wine tasting, including how to evaluate appearance, aroma, acidity, tannin, body, sweetness, and finish while exploring the major grape varieties and wine styles from around the world.  

Whether you're new to wine or looking to refine your tasting skills, you'll leave with a stronger understanding of wine fundamentals, a more discerning palate, and the confidence to enjoy and discuss wine with ease.  

Class Includes: 

• Introduction to wine tasting techniques 

• Overview of major wine styles and grape varieties 

• Guided blind tasting of 6–7 wines 

• Food pairings 

• Tasting notes and educational materials 

• Interactive discussion and Q&A 

Want to leave with a custom bottle of your own creation?  You have the option to register for the blending at time of registration. Extra fee applies. 

Develop a systematic approach to tasting and evaluating wine in this educational course designed for aspiring wine professionals, hospitality staff, and dedicated enthusiasts.  The course explores the fundamental components of wine, including grape varieties, climate, terroir, viticulture, vinification, and the influence of these factors on a wine’s aroma, flavor, and overall character. 

Students will also examine the principles of food and wine pairing and how balance, intensity, and texture influence successful matches.  A central component of the class is a guided blind tasting of 6–7 carefully selected wines representing a range of classic varieties and styles. Through comparative sensory analysis, participants will practice identifying structural elements—including acidity, tannin, alcohol, body, sweetness, and finish—while refining their ability to recognize varietal and regional characteristics.  

By the conclusion of the course, students will be able to: 

• Apply a systematic approach to wine tasting and evaluation. 

• Identify the structural components that define a wine's style and quality. 

• Recognize the characteristics of major grape varieties and classic wine styles. 

• Understand the impact of terroir and winemaking decisions on a finished wine. 

• Evaluate food and wine pairings using established sensory principles. 

• Communicate tasting observations with greater precision and confidence. 

Want to leave with a custom bottle of your own creation?  You have the option to register for the blending at time of registration. Extra fee applies.