Monthly Masterclasses with top specialists in the world in Napa and Los Angeles!

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

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.

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

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.