At Napa Valley Wine Academy, it's about the people and the place. Nestled in the heart of the iconic Napa Valley, our academy offers an unparalleled learning experience in one of the world's premier wine destinations. We believe that learning is enriched by the community you build along the way and the inspiring environment of Napa Valley.

Join Napa Valley Wine Academy Monday In-Person tasting group to learn how to taste wines. This is a one-hour study workshop for anyone who would like to improve their tasting abilities, especially students who are preparing for WSET exams (including Level 3 and Diploma). Learn about wine structure, grape varieties, and the influence of climate and weather conditions on wine style. Compare and contrast three wines with a Master of Wine candidate. Register now, only 12 seats are available! Buy 4 Monday Blinds - Get 1 Free!

Embark on a comprehensive two-day journey to master the nuances of Champagne with our Champagne Specialist Course, certified by the Comité Champagne. Day 1 (9:00am – 5:00pm) covers the rich history, production methods, and tasting techniques, providing a solid foundation in Champagne expertise. Day 2 (9:00am – 6:00pm) delves deeper into food pairings and recommendation strategies, culminating in a certification exam from 4:00pm to 6:00pm, ensuring you can confidently recommend and discuss Champagne.

Join us for a unique opportunity to learn about the world of wine in a hands-on experience in the heart of America’s wine country. This “hands-on course” includes getting dirty during spring or harvest and visiting both vineyards and the cellar. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to understand what makes each Napa Valley vintage unique entirely. PLEASE NOTE that WSET Level 3 Bootcamp courses take place over 7 consecutive days with the exam held on day 8 Level 3 exam registration is included.

Our WSET Level 1 course gives you the basic skills to talk and taste like a professional. This course is designed to be hands-on and fun. You will explore different styles of wines through sight, smell, and taste and learn the fundamental principles involved in the storage and service of wine. Pass the Exam and Display Once you pass the exam you can display your credentials instantly! You'll get a digital badge and certificate to celebrate your accomplishment. Share it instantly on LinkedIn, social media, or with your professional network to showcase your achievement!

A beginner-level introduction to spirits for those starting a career in the industry or pursuing an interest in spirits. For individuals new to the subject, this qualification offers a hands-on introduction to the world of spirits. Once you pass the exam you can display your credentials instantly! You'll get a digital badge and certificate to celebrate your accomplishment. Share it instantly on LinkedIn, social media, or with your professional network to showcase your achievement!

Are you new to beer study? Our WSET Level 1 Award in Beer course will help you begin talking about and tasting beer like a professional. For individuals new to the subject, this qualification offers a hands-on introduction to the world of beer. You’ll explore the main styles of beer through sight, smell, and taste to develop an understanding of the key factors affecting flavors and aromas. Once you pass the exam you can display your credentials instantly! You'll get a digital badge and certificate to celebrate your accomplishment. Share it instantly on LinkedIn, social media, or with your professional network to showcase your achievement!

Enroll in the WSET Level 2 course to explore the world's wine styles and regions, and refine your tasting skills with guided tastings of approximately 30 wines. Join now and learn to identify principal grape varieties, decode wine labels, and master the WSET’s Level 2 Systematic Approach to Wine Tasting (SAT). Once you pass the exam you can display your credentials instantly! You'll get a digital badge and certificate to celebrate your accomplishment. Share it instantly on LinkedIn, social media, or with your professional network to showcase your achievement!

WSET Level 2 Bootcamp in Napa ValleyOur bootcamp takes place over four (4) days in the beautiful Napa Valley wine region. Your WSET classroom time will be augmented with winery and vineyard visits so you gain a deep understanding of grape growing and winemaking practices.Your instructors are top educators in the industry, involved in winemaking, sommelier services, and other segments of the wine industry.You will be treated to over 60 wines over the course of your four days, including a glass of bubbles upon arrival and specialty pourings at wineries.

For individuals wishing to develop their expertise in spirits and liqueurs, this qualification provides comprehensive training. You’ll learn about the production methods and characteristics of the main spirit categories, while also exploring key brands and the use of spirits in cocktails. Upon successful completion, you will receive a WSET certificate and lapel pin and will be able to use the associated WSET certified logo. Once you pass the exam you can display your credentials instantly! You'll get a digital badge and certificate to celebrate your accomplishment. Share it instantly on LinkedIn, social media, or with your professional network to showcase your achievement!

If you’re ready to go beyond the basics, the WSET Level 2 Award in Beer offers a deeper look at the beer ingredients, production, and the world’s famous beer styles. You’ll also elevate your tasting skills with guided tastings of key beer styles. Once you pass the exam you can display your credentials instantly! You'll get a digital badge and certificate to celebrate your accomplishment. Share it instantly on LinkedIn, social media, or with your professional network to showcase your achievement!

We teach our students the WSET way of thinking. You’ll not only know the material, but you’ll also understand what they are looking for so you can feel confident on test day. You’ll also be ready for the blind tasting portion of the exam with guided tastings of approximately 80 benchmark wines.

Join us for an unforgettable afternoon celebrating the Slow Wine Guide USA - Northern California Launch! This special event will feature an incredible lineup of guest speakers, wine tastings, and a chance to explore the depth and diversity of sustainable winemaking in the region. The panel is moderated by renowned Deborah Parker Wong and includes the leading voices in sustainable winemaking: 1. Cathy Corison – Founder, Corison Winery 2. Michael Silacci – Winemaker, Opus One 3. Rebekah Wineburg – Winemaker, Quintessa 4. Ivo Jeramaz – Vice President of Vineyards & Production, Grgich Hills Estate. Enjoy an exclusive selection of 8 wines from some of Northern California's most iconic wineries. Each sip tells a story of craftsmanship and sustainability that aligns with the ethos of the Slow Wine Guide. On-Site Guide Sales Be the first to purchase copies of the Slow Wine Guide USA! Date: January 16, 2025 Location: 2501 Oak Street, Napa Valley Wine Academy 6 PM arrival, 6:15 start. Time: 6-8pm Pacific

Join Peter Andrews as he delves into South Africa’s rich wine history, the trends transforming the industry, and why now is the perfect time to explore these exceptional wines. With a focus on sustainable farming, old bush vine preservation, and a post-Apartheid resurgence, South Africa is one of the world’s most exciting wine regions today. This session will leave you inspired and eager to discover the wines shaping the country’s bright future. Peter Andrews, MBA, DipWSET, founded Culture Wine Co. after 15 years in the wine industry, where he has opened bottle shops, held executive roles, and taught wine business courses at Johnson & Wales University, The Culinary Institute of America, and WSET. He also serves on the Program Development Committee for the Unified Grape Symposium, North America’s largest wine industry trade show. Culture Wine Co. is the only U.S. importer, wholesaler, and retailer focused exclusively on South African wine. Founded by industry veteran Peter Andrews, Culture Wine Co. represents organic and minimal-intervention producers who are leading South Africa’s winemaking renaissance. These dynamic winemakers are reshaping the global perception of South African wines with their fresh, innovative approaches. Wine List: 2020 Genevieve Blanc de Blancs Cap Classique Brut, Bot River 2023 Scions of Sinai Granietsteen Old Vine Chenin Blanc, Stellenbosch 2022 Klein Amoskuil The Amos Block Old Vine Sauvignon Blanc, Swartland 2023 Scions of Sinai Heldervallei Old Vine Cinsault, Stellenbosch 2023 Scions of Sinai Atlantikas Pinotage, Stellenbosch 2021 Luddite Shiraz, Bot River 6 PM arrival, 6:15 start.

The remarkable wines of the Rhône Valley in France have transformed brilliantly in recent years due to climate change, evolving consumer preferences, and inspiring younger winemakers. Join us as we discover how these changes have yielded great successes with a tasting of Rhône white, red, and rosé wines. 6 PM arrival, 6:15 start.

This class is tailored to help individuals enhance their tasting skills, just for fun and for students preparing for a wine certification exam. Blind wine tasting removes preconceived notions and expectations, allowing for a more objective assessment. Participants will explore the physiology of taste and learn to evaluate key structural elements of wine, such as acidity, tannins, alcohol, residual sugar, and more. 6 PM arrival, 6:15 start.

Learn how to fully enjoy and buy France’s most opulent brandy - Cognac. This masterclass - an official region-supported event - will cover Cognac's history and the culture of Cognac around the world. Guests will grow to understand nuances in the production process, the aging categories, trends and the Cognac Crus. Come away from this Master Class with deep knowledge of this prized spirit, and a deeper appreciation for what is in the glass. This class is for both professionals and enthusiasts and is an excellent add-on to taking WSET Spirits Levels I and 2. 2 - 5 PM

Livio Felluga, fondly known as “the patriarch of the wines of Friuli,” revolutionized modern winemaking in Italy. After returning from WWII, he established a profound connection with the rolling hills of Friuli, reviving the vineyards of Rosazzo and setting the stage for an enduring legacy. In 1956, Livio showcased his pioneering spirit by creating an iconic label featuring an ancient map of the area. This label, symbolizing the deep-rooted story of his wines, predated the formal implementation of appellation of origin and became a hallmark of his visionary approach. Livio’s respect for the land, meticulous craftsmanship, and commitment to quality laid the foundation for a world-renowned winery. 6 PM arrival, 6:15 start.