Are you curious about the key aspects of the art of tasting wine? For a unique experience, join us for an evening of tasting and learning about some often-overlooked wines from regions around the world. We'll explore various types of wine, the appropriate glassware for each, the use of ice cubes or not, and how to match them with meals and cheese.
Then, we'll learn and practice the basic steps of wine tasting: look, swirl, smell, taste, and savor. Together, we will uncover the unique flavor profiles of each wine—identifying the subtle notes of fruits, spices, and oak that make each bottle distinct.
The wine list will feature a selection of locally available wines, including:
Sémillon: A white wine grape variety with deep roots in the Bordeaux region of France and Australia. It is known for a unique, "waxy" texture and delicate notes of honey, citrus, and stone fruit.
Rioja: A historic red blend from North-Central Spain. Traditionally shaped by a specific oak-aging process, it offers a bold profile of dark cherry, vanilla, and spice.
Côtes-du-Rhône: A classic, sun-drenched regional blend from the Rhône Valley in Southern France. This wine is famously easy-drinking and fruit-forward, featuring raspberry and peppery herbal notes.
Barbera d’Alba: A distinctive red from the Piedmont region of Northwest Italy. Loved for its bright acidity and juicy notes of dark cherry, it is often considered the ultimate food-pairing wine.
As a special highlight, we may even sample a few select bottles from the instructor’s private collection to compare and contrast with our featured list.
**Attendees should have food before arriving and drink responsibly. We will provide some snacks as well. You must be 21 years or older to attend this event.**
I have been a high-tech educator and manager for over 46 years. My wine journey began in 1984 while on an assignment to Australia, and evolved in earnest in 1993, continuing to this day.
Paul Martell