COURSES DESIGNED FOR THE WINE ENTHUSIAST

As a former educator, I love teaching others about the wine world. After completing various wine courses, I’ve personally designed these classes to be fun, informative, and present wine in a concise way with clear wine graphics. You’ll discover food pairings, service tips and have access to my “must see” wineries of the region. After completing these courses, you’ll sip with confidence and have a wealth of knowledge to share with others. My credentials for instructing include:

  • Certified Napa Valley Wine Expert- through Napa Valley Academy

  • Champagne MOOC course - The Comité Champagne - the trade association that represents the interests of independent Champagne producers (vignerons) and Champagne Houses.

  • Certified Argentinian Wine Specialist - through Napa Valley Wine Academy

  • WSET Wine awards - Level 1, 2, and Level 3 with 1500+ hours of study

  • WSET Level 1 award in Spirits

  • Additional wine courses completed: Margaret River - Wine Folly, Cote du Rhone & Wines of Georgia (Napa Valley Wine Academy)

Wine courses

  • In Person

    Gather a few wine lovers ready to take a deeper dive into the wine world. Classes include handouts of key geography, viticulture practices, grape profiles and guided tasting techniques. A list of suggested wines is provided, but optional for host to purchase. Classes held at host’s chosen private location. Cost is $50/participant.

  • Virtual

    These engaging courses are presented via Zoom. Prior to the course, key handouts of geography, viticulture and grape profiles will be sent to participants. A list of suggested, but optional wines to taste with the course will be emailed when zoom link is sent. These can be scheduled if a group of 4 or more want to participate. Cost is $35/ participant.

  • Engaging

    I’m passionate about sharing wine knowledge with others. Whether you choose to gather with friends in person for a course, or toast via ZOOM at a virtual class, both are a personal experience. These courses are an open dialogue to ask questions, and gain wine confidence in a small setting. Classes are typically 1 1/2 hours, but can range depending on number of participants. I allow time for questions and meaningful wine conversations.

Current Wine Courses offered:

Napa Valley

  • From the Judgment of Paris in 1976 to modern day, explore Napa Valley’s history and greatness.

  • Learn how geography, soils and climate influence the area, including famed Rutherford & Oakville bench.

  • Explore sub AVA’s (American Viticulture Area), with maps and marquis wineries of each.

  • Learn why Cabernet Sauvignon is king in Napa, and other varietals to explore.

  • You’ll be familiar with California winemaking techniques and how they plan to adapt to changing climates.

  • I’ll include a Napa itinerary of “must see” wineries and food experiences.

Course Dates:

Private - Contact to schedule if you have 4 or more participants. Class would be hosted at participant’s private residence.

Virtual Dates- Contact to reserve your preferred dates.

cHAMPAGNE cLASS

Is there anything more glamorous than Champagne? I think not! In this course you’ll:

  • Explore the region & history of Champagne through maps.

  • Discover how the climate and soil influences viticulture.

  • Learn the process of champagne wine making.

  • Discover how it differs in process and style from other sparkling wines of the world

  • Learn what grapes are included in champagne and how each contribute to the style.

  • Review the blending and aging process of champagne and how it influences the style.

  • Learn how to serve champagne, including opening techniques, chilling techniques and glassware.

  • Guided tasting techniques

  • Suggested Champagne food pairings, and favorite champagne cocktail recipes

venues available to rent:

COURSE DATES:

Private Classes: Contact to schedule, if you have 4 or more interested participants.

Virtual Class Dates: Classes via Zoom. Contact to reserve your spot.

I can present a memorable wine educational experience in home, virtually or at a local venue. Venues available to rent for classes or tastings:

  • The Carriage House Collective: 381 Brinton Lake Rd, Thornton, PA 19373

  • Strawflower Farms: 51 Broomall Ln, Glen Mills, PA 19342

  • Renegade Flower Farm: 3597 Garnet Mine Rd, Garnet Valley, PA 19060

  • Blue Heron: https://www.blueheronmalvern.com/

  • Email amanda@blevins-somm.com for rental pricing