Introduction to Wine Course, Tuesdays, 16th April to 21st May 2024

Our comprehensive six-week Introduction to Wine Course has been created specifically for beginners to wine. Based in our London cellars, this unique wine course will give you the opportunity to build your knowledge and confidence.    

Over the course of six evenings, one of our experienced wine educators will take you on an enriching wine journey in a relaxed and informal setting. With more than 50 wines to sample, you will discover over 15 iconic grape varieties and many of the key styles from across the globe. You will also look at matching wine with food and deciphering wine labels, while discussing serving tips and techniques.   

The journey will start by understanding the components that make up the wine in your glass. During this wine course, you will be able to ask all of your burning wine-related questions, challenge common wine myths and gain confidence in describing wine as you cover basic tasting techniques, discover your preferences and the reasons behind them.    

Every session will begin with a delicious apéritif before you are seated in our historic Pickering Cellar with your fellow students to taste and learn. Each week you will also have a delicious selection of cheese and charcuterie to enjoy, alongside our chefs’ famous homemade gougères and freshly baked bread.   

Upon completion of this wine course, you will have gained confidence and knowledge, enabling you to choose wines you enjoy in both restaurants and your local wine merchant. You will also receive your own copy of our bespoke "Exploring & Tasting Wine" textbook, which will serve as a comprehensive guide to revisit whenever you desire.  

The course will follow the below outline, with the emphasis firmly on learning through taste:  

Session one: Tuesday 16th April 2024 

What is in a glass of wine and how to sense it?    

Session two: Tuesday 23rd April 2024  

Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon    

Session three: Tuesday 30th April 2024 

Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot    

Session four: Tuesday 7th May 2024  

Riesling, Gewürztraminer and Chenin Blanc    

Session five: Tuesday 14th May 2024 

Pinot Noir, Gamay, Syrah/Shiraz and Zinfandel    

Session six: Tuesday 21st May 2024  

Grenache, Nebbiolo, Sangiovese, Tempranillo and a review of all grape varieties covered  

NB Please note we cannot guarantee to be able to re-book participants onto subsequent course sessions if an evening is missed.  

Dress code: smart casual