French Wine Essentials

A Wine Scholar Guild Course

French Wine Essentials

6 weeks

A fun weekday evening to spend learning with friends old and new

6 to 14 students

Classes capped at 14 students to maximise fun and learning

In The Map Room

upstairs at Cardwell Cellars, Abbotsford

$850 per person

Includes class time, course materials, wines for tasting and certificate upon successful completion

French Wine Essentials provides wine professionals and inquisitive enthusiasts with a solid foundation on the often-complex wines of France; highlighting the 'need to know' regions, grape varieties, and wine styles.

Wine Scholar Guild is an internationally-recognised qualification that focusses solely on the most influential wine regions of Europe, instilling a deep understanding of these wines, winemakers, and their culture.

WSG offers immersive, region-specific wine education, which set the industry standard for up-to-date and in-depth information on their focus countries.

Course Structure

⚬ Week 1

Introduction and Sparkling Wines of France:
We’ll sample Vintage Brut, Blanc de Blancs , Blanc de Noir, and Crémant

⚬ Week 2

Alsace and the Loire Valley:
Alsace Grand Cru Riesling, Alsace AC Gewurztraminer or Pinot Gris, Muscadet, Sancerre, Vouvray

⚬ Week 3

Bordeaux and Provence:
Bordeaux white, a Left Bank Red such as Margaux or Pauillac, a Premium Right Bank Red or Provence Rosé

⚬ Week 4

Bourgogne and Beaujolais:
Chablis, Bourgogne Premier Cru white, Premier Cru red, Cru Beaujolais

⚬ Week 5

Rhone Valley & Languedoc Roussillon:
Côte Rôtie, Hermitage or Côtes du Rhône, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Corbières or Minervois

⚬ Week 6

Exam

What you will learn

France is home to almost individual 400 wine appellations. French Wine Essentials (FWE) introduces you to the most important regions and wine styles. Each wine is presented within a regional and cultural context while landmarks and traditional cuisine are highlighted to complete the curriculum. 

The comprehensive course structure includes a 101 page study guide, access to interactive e-learning and support from expert educators to guide you through an inspiring adventure across France.

More than just an introductory course, this French wine course is a prelude to a lifelong romance with the wines of France, a launchpad to the internationally revered French Wine Scholar® Certification Program, vibrant WSG Member Community and the first step towards wine mastery!