More than a quarter century ago, European grapevines were brought to modern-day California by missionaries who traveled to the Americas with Spanish conquistadors. A lot has changed since then, but reasons to learn about and celebrate California wines abound!
We will explore icons, newcomers, and those in between to wrap our minds and mouths around what makes California such a globally acclaimed winegrowing destination. In a land shaped by European grapes and winemaking knowledge, the freedom from Europe's appellation wine law system has long made The Golden State a hotbed of vinous creativity, shaping a terroir found nowhere else.
Class is 2 hours long, including a Q&A session with sommelier and expert wine educator Chris Struck.
What you can expect:
- 1 sparkling welcome wine
- 6 Tastings pours of Californian Wines
- Palate cleansing bread & cheese
- A 20% discount on all wines tasted to use in-store after class
What you will learn:
- A brief history of winemaking in California, along with the most widely planted grape varieties
- A general overview of styles and how these have changed over time
- Examples that lean into fruit vs savory vs mineral expressions in this broad category
- About what the uncertain future of climate change, tariffs, and ever-changing consumer preferences could mean for the state's grape growers and winemakers
Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Style: Tasting + Discussion
Good for: Wine tasting, Wine class NYC, Things to do in New York in July