Brawny or delicate? Buttery or spicy? Grassy or oaky? If you’ve always been a little mystified by how professionals describe and compare wines, you’re not alone. This class is all about showing you how to put wine into words, by applying the same systematic process for tasting, evaluating, and remembering wines that the pros use.

You will learn everything from tasting techniques to the quality characteristics of wine, whether it’s one of the world’s classic grape varieties or “the next big thing.” Engaging all of your senses, you’ll taste and experience the personalities and profiles of the world’s classic white and red grape varieties and learn how to describe the wines made from them.

Along the way, you’ll discover how the choices made by winemakers—such as the fermentation method and the way the oak barrels are used—impact a wine’s flavor. You’ll come away from this Boot Camp with the tools you need to purchase, taste, and enjoy wine as you never have before.

Dress code: The dress code for this course is business casual. Blue jeans, shorts, tank tops, and open-toed sandals are not permitted. When visiting vineyards and wineries, sturdy, flat-soled shoes are required. Please refrain from wearing strong fragrances or cologne, as they will interfere with your learning experience as well as that of fellow students. Additional items such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats are suggested during the summer months as well as warm jackets during winter months.

Please note: this class is open to students 21 years and older.