HSA's Introduction to Wine Tasting is an intensive one-day course that covers a wide range of wine styles and regions. Both informative and entertaining, the course is designed for beginners completely new to wine, bacchanals experienced in wine but without formal education, and epicures just looking for a relaxed afternoon with premium wines and other indulgences. Our expert instructors will provide the technical knowledge essential to navigating the world of wine, as well as impart a level of comfort and the flair of presentation that distinguishes the connoisseur from a mere consumer.

The course will offer an introduction to the basic terms used to describe and characterize all wines. The jargon and semantics of wine can often be intimidating. Many people, even some experienced vinophiles, can have a hard time describing their perceptions and preferences without professional guidance. Our Introduction to Wine Tasting will teach you what characteristics to look for, how to taste the quality of those characteristics, and how to articulate your likes and dislikes.

Our survey encompasses specific regions (Old World: France, Italy, Germany, Iberia, and New World: Americas, Australia, South Africa), major varietals (Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Syrah, Riesling, etc.), and addresses the differences within varietal groups. Midway through the course, we will take a break from wine tasting to enjoy a number of domestic and imported cheeses and to discuss the nuances of combining flavors for optimal degustation.

In addition to instruction and samples, the course tuition includes a hardcover copy of Kevin Zraly's Windows on the World ($24.95 value), America's top-selling wine guide, heralded by The New York Times as, "One of the best wine books ever written." This book is the perfect companion to the course.