Well-known for its wines since the Greeks colonized Marseilles in the fourth century BC, the Rhône Valley gained renewed impetus with the arrival of the papacy in the 13th century; that papal connection prompted the creation of France’s first legally recognized appellation, Chateauneuf-du-Pape. The valley is home to over a dozen grape varieties, with Syrah leading the way in northern parts of the valley like Hermitage and Cornas and Grenache-led blends in the south. Few wine regions in France are as diverse and exciting.
Classes are 2 hours long, including a Q&A with Astor Center Instructor, Jim Clarke.
What you will learn:
- The history of viticulture in the Rhône Valley, stretching from the ancient Romans to Papal palaces to today.
- The major grape varieties of the Rhône and how they work together in a blend.
- How the Mediterranean Sea, the Rhône River, the Mistral wind, and the geology of the area influences the Rhône Valley’s wines
- How the Mediterranean Sea, the Rhône River, the Mistral wind, and the geology of the area influences the Rhône Valley’s wines
What you can expect:
- 1 Welcome sparkling wine
- 6 Tasting pours of wines from the Rhone Valley
- Palate-cleansing bread and cheese
- A 20% discount on all wines tasted to use in-store after class
Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Style: Tasting + Discussion
Food Served: Bread & Cheese
Good for: Wine class NYC, Wine tasting, NYC wine tasting events
What people are saying about Astor Center:
“This was likely my fifth class at Astor. The instructors are professionals, the facility is first-rate, and the experience is always exceptional.”