Accelerated Foundation Course

“The Wine School is a great place to build knowledge and pursue your passion.”

Jonathan Newman, Wine Enthusiast Man of the year & former Chairman of the PLCB

Course Schedule

This wine course runs from August 7th to August 12th.

• Monday,  8:30 pm to 10:00 pm, White Varietal Components
• Tuesday: Section #1: North & South America Section #2: Red Varietal Components
• Wednesday,  8:30 pm to 10:00 pm, Old World vs. New World
• Thursday,  6:30 pm to 10:00 pm, Varietal Fingerprint Lab
• Friday,  8:30 pm to 10:00 pm, Blind Tasting
• Saturday, 2-3 pm, Exam

“The Foundation program is truly a unique and enjoyable learning experience… it is the only chemistry class you will fall in love with.”

Bob Pigeon, Executive Editor of De Capo Press.

Would you like to become a sommelier rather than just a wine tourist? Take the Foundation Wine Course, a part of the National Wine School’s sommelier certification program, and unlock the hidden depths of wine. During a week, immerse yourself in a wine journey that will transform your hobby into a passionate skill.

Learn how to identify major wine varietals in blind tastings in this accelerated program. Graduates will possess a skill that many seasoned sommeliers lack.

Course Content

1. The Science of Wine: Explore the fascinating scientific aspects that contribute to the creation and characteristics of wines, unraveling the secrets behind their flavors, aromas, and complexities.
2. Understanding White Wines: Delve into white wines, discovering the diverse range of styles, regions, and production techniques that shape their unique profiles.
3. Old World and New World Styles: Contrast the traditional elegance of Old World wines with the bold innovation of New World wines, exploring their respective terroirs, winemaking traditions, and distinctive expressions.
4. Understanding Red Wines: Gain a comprehensive understanding of red wines, unraveling their nuanced flavors, aging potential, and the art of pairing them with various cuisines.
5. Wine Components: Deepen your knowledge of the fundamental elements contributing to wine complexity, including acidity, tannins, and body.
6. Blind Tasting: Hone your sensory skills through blind tastings, sharpening your ability to discern varietals, styles, and regions confidently and precisely.

A series of blind tastings and multiple-choice tests will culminate this program’s assessment, which challenges your sensory progress. Blind tastings require graduates to identify the varietal, style, and region of each wine presented. You will be able to surpass most sommeliers’ tasting abilities with this program, which has a 91% pass rate.

The Foundation Wine Course is designed to welcome and accommodate anyone passionate about wine. No prerequisites are required to enroll in it. Level One Wine Course can be an excellent foundation for your educational journey but is optional.