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Allied Beverage GroupWine Trainings

GlossaryBeginner Level:• Introduction to Wine: A Basic Overview Pg. 3 • Understanding Grape Varieties Pg.3• Exploring White Wines Pg.3• Exploring Red Wines Pg. 3• Basics of Wine Tasting Pg. 4• How to Read a Wine Label Pg. 4• Wine and Food Pairing for Beginners Pg. 4• Wine Service and Glassware Pg. 4Intermediate Level:• Decoding Wine Terminology Pg. 5• Wine Tasting Techniques: Taste Like a Pro Pg. 5• Old World vs. New World Wines Pg. 5• Major Wine Regions: France Pg. 5• Major Wine Regions: Italy Pg. 6• Major Wine Regions: Spain Pg. 6• Major Wine Regions: United States Pg. 6• Major Wine Regions: Australia and New Zealand Pg. 6• Major Wine Regions: South America Pg. 7• Major Wine Regions: South Africa Pg. 7• Sparkling and Fortified Wines Pg.7• Wine Aging and Cellaring Pg. 7• Chardonnay Around the World Pg. 8• Sauvignon Blanc Around the World Pg. 8• Pinot Gris Around the World Pg. 8• Cabernet Sauvignon Around the World Pg. 8• Pinot Noir Around the World Pg. 9• Syrah Around the World Pg. 9• From France to the New World Pg. 9• Germany vs Alsace: An Aromatic Exploration Pg. 9• Loire Valley In-Depth Pg. 10• Burgundy In-Depth Pg. 10• Northern Rhône vs. Southern Rhône Pg. 10Intermediate Level:• Napa Valley In-Depth Pg . 10• The North Coast In-Depth Pg. 11• The Central Coast In-Depth Pg. 11• Oregon In-Depth Pg. 11• Washington State In-Depth Pg. 11• Tuscany In-Depth Pg. 12• Piedmont In-Depth Pg. 12• Sicily In-Depth Pg. 12• Indigenous Italian Grape Varieties Pg. 12• Rioja In-Depth Pg. 13• Mountain Wines Pg. 13• Hillside Vineyards and their Effect on Taste Pg. 13• Wines of Coastal Areas Pg. 13• Rosé Around the World Pg. 14• Up and Coming Grapes and Regions Pg. 14• Rediscovered Regions Pg. 14• Introduction to Wine Chemistry Pg. 14Advanced Level:• Terroir and Its Impact on Wine Pg. 15• Organic, Biodynamic, and Sustainable Viticulture Pg. 15• Advanced Wine Faults and Flaws Pg. 15• Write an Award-Winning Wine List Pg. 15• The Influence of Oak in Winemaking Pg. 16• The Art of Blending Pg. 16• Sparkling Wines: Champagne and Beyond Pg 16.• Dessert and Fortified Wines Pg. 16• Quality vs Quantity Pg. 17• Alternatives to Popular Grape Varieties Pg. 17• The History of Winemaking: Ancient to Modern Pg. 17• Advanced Sommelier Techniques Pg. 17

Beginner CoursesIntroduction to Wine: A Basic OverviewThis class offers a foundational understanding of wine, covering its historical origins, the basic winemaking process, and an introduction to common grape varieties. Participants will develop a palate for identifying primary wine flavors and learn essential terminology to communicate their preferences.Understanding Grape VarietiesExplore the world of grape varieties, distinguishing between red and white grapes, and understanding the flavor profiles associated with each. Through guided tastings, participants will gain practical experience in identifying key varieties and their unique characteristics.Exploring White WinesJourney into the realm of white wines, discovering the characteristics of popular varieties like Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Riesling from various regions. The class includes discussions on winemaking techniques specific to white wines and practical tips for serving and storing them.Exploring Red WinesDelve into the diverse world of red wines, examining the distinct flavors of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Pinot Noir, among others. Participants will deepen their understanding of the impact of grape skins on red wine characteristics and learn to distinguish between various red wine styles. - 1 Hour Each

Beginner CoursesBasics of Wine TastingLearn the essential techniques for wine tasting, including visual inspection, olfactory assessment, and palate evaluation. Practical exercises will enhance sensory perception, enabling participants to articulate their preferences with confidence.How to Read a Wine LabelDecode the information on wine labels, understanding terms such as variety, varietal, appellation, and vintage to make informed selections. Participants will gain insights into how label information reflects the style and quality of the wine inside the bottle.Wine and Food Pairing for BeginnersGain insights into the principles of pairing wine with food, discovering harmonious combinations that enhance both culinary and vinous experiences. Through guided pairings, participants will develop an understanding of how different flavors interact to create delightful matches.Wine Service and GlasswarePursue the art of serving wine, including proper temperatures, decanting, and selecting the right glassware for different wine styles. Participants will practice serving wines using industry-standard techniques, ensuring an optimal drinking experience for themselves and others.
- 1 Hour Each

Intermediate CoursesDecoding Wine TerminologyFamiliarize yourself with common wine terminology, empowering you to articulate and discuss wine characteristics with confidence. The class will provide practical examples and exercises to reinforce the use of terminology in real-world wine conversations.Wine Tasting Techniques: Taste Like a ProElevate your tasting skills with advanced techniques, including blind tastings and the nuanced exploration of wine structure and complexity. This class will challenge participants to identify subtle nuances in aroma and flavor, refining their ability to critically assess and describe wines.Old World vs. New World WinesCompare and contrast the traditional winemaking practices of Old World regions with the innovative approaches of New World counterparts, examining how terroir influences styles. Through blind tastings, participants will refine their ability to identify wines based on regional characteristicsMajor Wine Regions: FranceEmbark on a detailed exploration of France's iconic wine regions, understanding the unique terroirs that shape each wine. Participants will delve into the historical significance of French wine regions and gain an appreciation for the diversity within the country. - 90 Minutes Each

Intermediate CoursesMajor Wine Regions: ItalyTraverse the diverse landscapes of Italian viticulture, unraveling the intricate web of regions such as Tuscany, Piedmont, and Sicily. The class will emphasize the influence of geography and cultural traditions on the flavors and styles of Italian wines.Major Wine Regions: SpainDiscover the rich tapestry of Spanish wine, from the robust reds of Rioja to the sparkling Cava of Catalonia, exploring the cultural significance of each region. Participants will explore the diverse grape varieties unique to Spain and the impact of regional climates on wine profiles.Major Wine Regions: United StatesNavigate the expansive world of American wine, from the refined wines of Napa Valley to the cool-climate offerings of Oregon and Washington State. This class will highlight the evolution of the U.S. wine industry and the distinct characteristics of wines produced in different states.Major Wine Regions: Australia and New ZealandEmbark on a Southern Hemisphere journey, exploring the bold Shiraz of Barossa Valley and the vibrant Sauvignon Blancs of Marlborough. Participants will gain insights into the unique winemaking practices and varieties that define the wine landscapes of Australia and New Zealand. - 90 Minutes Each

Intermediate CoursesMajor Wine Regions: South AmericaUncover the wine landscape of Argentina and Chile, where high-altitude vineyards produce a number of exceptional and affordable wines. Through tastings, participants will discern the influence of altitude and climate on South American wines and the distinct characteristics of each country's offerings.Major Wine Regions: South AfricaExplore the unique terroirs of South African vineyards, gaining an appreciation for the distinctive characteristics of these wines that blur the lines of the Old World and the New. The class will delve into the history of winemaking in South Africa and the impact of diverse vineyard area on wine styles.Sparkling and Fortified WinesEmbark on a captivating journey through the effervescent realm of sparkling wines, exploring production methods from the traditional to the contemporary. Transition to fortified wines, uncovering the nuances of Port, Sherry, and Madeira, as you delve into their rich histories and distinct flavor profiles through guided tastings.Wine Aging and CellaringDelve into the transformative effects of aging on wine, understanding the factors influencing cellaring potential and the art of building a wine collection. Participants will explore the science behind aging and have the opportunity to taste aged wines to discern the evolution of flavors. - 90 Minutes Each

Intermediate CoursesChardonnay Around the World Embark on a global tour of Chardonnay, from the crisp elegance of Chablis to the vibrant New World expressions in California and Australia. This class provides a comprehensive understanding of the versatile Chardonnay grape and the influence of diverse climates and winemaking techniques.Sauvignon Blanc Around the WorldExplore the zesty and aromatic world of Sauvignon Blanc as you traverse from the elegant citrus expressions of the Loire Valley, to the herbaceous wines of New Zealand and through tropical examples of California. Through comparative tastings, discover the stylistic variations that make Sauvignon Blanc a global favorite.Pinot Gris Around the WorldUncover the versatility of Pinot Gris as it manifests in the crisp Pinot Grigios of Italy, the rich and textured Alsatian versions, as well as vibrant New World interpretations. This class offers insights into the subtle differences in winemaking styles that influence the grape's expression in diverse regions.Cabernet Sauvignon Around the WorldEmbark on a journey through the king of red grapes, Cabernet Sauvignon, exploring its powerful expressions in Bordeaux, the structured elegance of Napa Valley, and the bold fruit-forward profiles in regions like Australia and Chile. Through tastings, understand how terroir and winemaking choices shape the character of Cabernet Sauvignon globally. - 90 Minutes Each

Intermediate CoursesPinot Noir Around the WorldIndulge in the elegant world of Pinot Noir, comparing the Old World charm of Burgundy to the New World allure found in Oregon, New Zealand and California. This class delves into the nuanced expressions of this delicate grape, highlighting the impact of climate and winemaking philosophy.Syrah Around the WorldEmbark on a global exploration of Syrah, from the peppery and robust wines of the Northern Rhône to the bold, fruit-driven expressions in Australia and the complex blends produced around the world. Through tastings, unravel the diverse profiles that Syrah adopts in different climates and winemaking traditions.From France to the New WorldEmbark on a transcontinental journey tracing the migration of historic French grape varieties to the New World's burgeoning wine regions. Explore how noble grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Merlot have found new homes in places like California, Australia, and Chile. Through tastings, discover the unique expressions these grapes take on in diverse terroirs, showcasing the global impact of French viticultural heritage on New World winemaking. Germany vs Alsace: An Aromatic ExplorationEmbark on a comparative exploration of aromatic white wines from Germany and Alsace. From the floral Rieslings of the Mosel to the rich Gewürztraminers of Alsace, participants will delve into the contrasting styles and terroirs that define these renowned aromatic wine regions. - 90 Minutes Each

Intermediate CoursesLoire Valley In-DepthEmbark on a journey through the picturesque Loire Valley, exploring the diverse expressions of both red and white wines. From the crisp Chenin Blancs to the earthy Cabernet Francs, to bright Sancerre, participants will unravel the terroir-driven elegance that defines this enchanting French wine region.Burgundy In-DepthExplore the nuances of Burgundy, delving into the region's complex hierarchy of classifications, from village wines to Grand Crus. Through producer profile examination and tastings, participants will gain an intimate understanding of the terroir-driven wines of Burgundy.Northern Rhône vs. Southern RhôneDelve into the distinct terroirs of the Rhône Valley, comparing the bold, single-varietal expressions of Syrah in the North with the diverse blends of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre in the South. Through guided tastings, explore how geographical nuances shape the character of wines in these two iconic regions. White wines available as well.Napa Valley In-DepthTake a deep dive into the terroir and winemaking diversity of Napa Valley, from the iconic Cabernet Sauvignons of Oakville to the cool-climate Chardonnays of Carneros. This class offers a detailed exploration of the subregions, vineyard practices, and stylistic variations that define the renowned Napa Valley. - 90 Minutes Each

Intermediate CoursesThe North Coast In-DepthDelve into the wine-rich landscapes of California's North Coast, including Napa Valley, Sonoma County. Through tastings, uncover the unique terroirs that define The North Coast and contribute to its reputation as a powerhouse of premium wine production.The Central Coast In-DepthImmerse yourself in the viticultural tapestry of California's Central Coast, spanning from Santa Barbara to Monterey. Participants will explore the region's diverse terroirs, tasting their way through the bold Cabernet Sauvignons of Paso Robles, the elegant Pinot Noirs of Santa Rita Hills, and the maritime-influenced Chardonnays of the region. This class provides a comprehensive understanding of the climatic and geological factors that shape the wines of the Central CoastOregon In-DepthExplore the diverse wine regions of Oregon, particularly the renowned Willamette Valley, known for its exceptional Pinot Noir and cool-climate varieties. Participants will delve into the impact of the maritime climate, volcanic soils, and sustainable viticultural practices that define the wines of this Pacific Northwest gem.Washington State In-DepthEmbark on a comprehensive study of Washington State's dynamic wine landscape including the robust Cabernet Sauvignons of Walla Walla. Through tastings, participants will unravel the influences of the Columbia River, varied microclimates, and winemaking styles that contribute to the diversity of Washington State wines. - 90 Minutes Each

Intermediate CoursesTuscany In-DepthDelve into the heart of Tuscany, exploring its iconic red wines, including Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and the Super Tuscans. Through tastings, participants will grasp the significance of Sangiovese, understand the influence of microclimates, and appreciate the rich history and cultural resonance of Tuscan winemaking.Piemonte In-DepthImmerse yourself in the complexities of Piemonte, home to renowned wines such as Barolo and Barbaresco. Participants will navigate through the Nebbiolo grape's expressions, examining the influence of the region's unique terroir and the significance of aging in traditional large oak casks.Sicily In-DepthEmbark on a sensory exploration of Sicily, discovering the diverse terroirs that produce both indigenous and international grape varieties. From the volcanic soils of Mount Etna to the sun-kissed coastal vineyards, participants will uncover the distinctive flavors that characterize Sicilian reds and whites.Indigenous Italian Grape VarietiesEmbark on a sensory journey through Italy, exploring the rich tapestry of indigenous grape varieties that define the country's diverse wine regions. From Aglianico in the south to Nebbiolo in the north, participants will discover the unique flavors and cultural significance of Italy's lesser-known varieties. - 90 Minutes Each

Intermediate CoursesRioja In-DepthUncover the essence of Rioja, Spain's celebrated wine region known for its Tempranillo-based reds. Participants will explore the impact of extended oak aging and the unique classification system, gaining insights into the evolution of Rioja wines from vibrant Joven to the complex Gran Reserva.Mountain WinesAscend to new heights as you explore wines from high-altitude mountain vineyards. Through tastings, participants will discern the impact of cooler climates and increased sun exposure on grape development, experiencing the unique expressions that define wines cultivated in mountainous regions.Hillside Vineyards and their Effect on TasteDive into the nuances of wines produced from hillside vineyards, examining how elevation and slope influence grape ripening and flavor development. Through tastings, participants will discern the impact of terroir variations on the taste profiles of wines grown on hillsides.Wines of Coastal AreasEmbark on a coastal wine adventure, exploring the influences of maritime climates on grape varieties. From the crisp whites of coastal Spain to fragrant Pinot Noirs of California's coastline, participants will discover how proximity to the sea imparts distinctive characteristics to wines from coastal regions. - 90 Minutes Each

Intermediate CoursesRosé Around the WorldCelebrate the diversity of rosé wines from around the globe, from the pale pinks of Provence to the vibrant hues of Spanish Rosado. Through tastings, participants will explore the different grape varieties and winemaking techniques that contribute to the spectrum of flavors in rosé wines.Up and Coming Grapes and RegionsStay ahead of wine trends by discovering lesser-known grape varieties and emerging wine regions. Through tastings and discussions, explore the unique characteristics of these hidden gems, gaining insights into the evolving landscape of the global wine industry.Rediscovered RegionsUnearth hidden treasures in the world of wine by exploring regions that have been rediscovered for their viticultural potential. Through tastings, participants will uncover the unique terroirs and grape varieties that make these regions compelling and worthy of renewed attention.Introduction to Wine ChemistryDive into the scientific aspects of winemaking, exploring the chemical processes that occur during fermentation, maturation, and aging. Participants will engage in hands-on experiments to understand how chemical compounds contribute to the sensory characteristics of wine. - 90 Minutes Each

Advanced CoursesTerroir and Its Impact on WineDeepen your understanding of terroir, exploring how soil, climate, and topography shape the unique personality of wines from different regions. Participants will examine wines from around the globe.Organic, Biodynamic, and Sustainable ViticultureExamine the principles of sustainable viticulture, exploring organic and biodynamic practices that promote environmental stewardship in the vineyard. Participants will gain insights into the challenges and benefits of sustainable winegrowing, followed by tasting the finished product.Advanced Wine Faults and FlawsDevelop the ability to identify and understand wine faults, from oxidation to microbial contamination, and explore strategies for prevention. Through sensory analysis, participants will hone their skills in detecting subtle flaws that can impact wine quality.Write an Award-Winning Wine ListLearn the art of curating a standout wine list that captivates and enhances the dining experience. This class covers the principles of wine list design, selection strategies, and the importance of balancing variety, regionality, and price points to create an award-winning offering. - 2 Hours Each

Advanced CoursesThe Influence of Oak in WinemakingExplore the art of oak aging, understanding how different types of barrels impart flavors and textures to wine, influencing its overall profile. Participants will taste wines aged in various types of oak for different lengths of time to discern the impact of oak on different grape varieties and styles.The Art of Blending Gain expertise in the intricate craft of wine blending, learning to balance different grape varieties to create harmonious and complex wines. Understand the art of finding balance, consistency and desired style by examining the most popular blends from around the world.Sparkling Wines: Champagne and BeyondImmerse yourself in the world of sparkling wines, with a focus on the traditional method used in Champagne production and exploring sparkling offerings from other regions. Through comparative tastings, participants will learn to appreciate the diversity of sparkling wine styles.Dessert and Fortified WinesIndulge in the world of sweet and fortified wines, discovering the intricate processes behind the production of Port, Sherry, Madeira, and late-harvest wines. Participants will explore the delicate balance of sweetness and acidity in these wines through guided tastings. - 2 Hours Each

Advanced CoursesQuality vs QuantityDelve into the age-old debate of quality versus quantity in winemaking. Through case studies and tastings, participants will explore the impact of vineyard practices, yield management, and winemaking choices on the final product, gaining insights into the nuanced relationship between quality and quantity in the world of wine.Alternatives to Popular Grape VarietiesChallenge your palate by exploring alternatives to mainstream grape varieties. From lesser-known reds to unique white varietals, participants will discover exciting options that provide diversity and surprise in the world of wine.The History of Winemaking: Ancient to ModernTake a historical journey through winemaking, tracing its evolution from ancient civilizations to the modern techniques and technologies employed today. Participants will analyze the impact of historical events on winemaking practices and the continuity of traditions over centuries.Advanced Sommelier TechniquesElevate your sommelier skills to an advanced level, honing expertise in blind tastings, food and wine pairings, and expert-level service. This class will include role-playing scenarios to simulate real-world challenges faced by advanced sommeliers - 2 Hours Each