Event

Wine Appreciation: Palate Development School with Oliver McCrum

Monday, June 17 and Monday, June 24, 6:30-9PM

Novice and wine experts alike, take your wine knowledge to the next level with this two-part course taught by wine importer and expert Oliver McCrum. By looking at wine from a structural standpoint and learning how acid, tannin, sweetness, and alcohol interplay in wine, we will begin to better understand our own palates and the components that make each wine unique. At the second class we will learn how to identify flaws in wine and learn that some flaws are acceptable and even welcome up to a certain threshold unique to each wine drinker. Throughout the course we will apply our knowledge by tasting wine and in the last class, both wine and food.

Class dates:

Monday, June 17: Component Tasting
In this first and fundamental class, we will analyze the structure of wine (acid, tannin, alcohol, and sweetness), learn where we taste each component in the mouth, and begin to see wine as more than just pretty aromas. After this first class, you will be able to evaluate wine like a professional and you will gain a better understanding of your palate and your own likes and dislikes.

Monday, June 24: Wine Faults
Our second class will focus on understanding wine faults and flaws, such as cork taint, oxidation, volatile acidity, and more. We will also discuss thresholds for flaws and understanding yours, as well as how to taste for faults at restaurants (yes, you can return that bottle!)

Oliver McCrum has been in the wine business since 1978 in England, New York, and close to 30 years in the San Francisco Bay Area. He has taught multiple sold-out classes at 18 Reasons to much acclaim for his depth of knowledge, great teaching skills, and mastery at making wine exciting, approachable, and dynamic for students of all levels. Learn more about Oliver McCrum wines here.