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Sommelier Classes Chicago

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Discover the art of wine tasting and become a knowledgeable sommelier in Chicago, with classes ranging from introductory wine education to advanced courses on wine pairing and regional varietals.

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20 results

War and Wine: Grand Cru of Wine

The Chopping Block Lincoln Square See all classes by this school @ 4747 N Lincoln, Chicago, IL

Uncover the hidden tales of bravery and resistance during World War II as you sip on exquisite wines from Champagne, Burgundy, and Bordeaux. Join us as we delve into the fascinating history of French winemakers and their battle against the German plunderers. This unique experience will leave you with a newfound appreciation for both the power of wine and the resilience of the human spirit.

(273) All levels 21 and older
$143.75
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+1437 pts
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How to Bluff Your Way Through Wine

The Chopping Block Lincoln Square See all classes by this school @ 4747 N Lincoln, Chicago, IL

Unlock the secrets of wine flavor with Advanced Sommelier Mary Ross. Discover the four variables shaping every wine's taste and master professional tasting techniques. Ideal for novices and enthusiasts alike, indulge in a tasting journey featuring international wines and culinary delights.

(273) All levels 21 and older
$126.50
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+1265 pts
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Wine Tasting: Becoming a Wine Connoisseur

Discovery Center See all classes by this school @ 4318 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL

Embark on a journey to unlock the secrets of the world of wine at the renowned Discovery Center. Expand your wine vocabulary and learn the art of wine tasting from the experts while indulging in a variety of classical grape varietals. Develop your palate and become a true wine connoisseur.

(296) All levels 21 and older
$39
Attend
+390 pts
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Wine Tasting: Sparkling, Rose, Orange

Discovery Center See all classes by this school @ 4318 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL

Embark on a flavorful journey beyond traditional reds and whites. Discover the nuances of sparkling, rose, and orange wines, from production to pairing. Expand your wine knowledge and palate with expert guidance and bonus tastings in each session.

(296) All levels 21 and older
$39
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+390 pts
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Wine Service Techniques

San Francisco Wine School See all classes by this school @ Online

Master the art of professional wine service with expert guidance on technique, presentation, and hospitality. Explore the essential roles of a sommelier, from mise en place to responsible service, while refining your skills in standard pours, Champagne service, and decanting. Gain hands-on experience and learn to navigate real-world challenges with confidence and precision.

(14) Beginner 21 and older
$165
Attend
+1650 pts
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Somm Essentials Service & Tasting Exam

San Francisco Wine School See all classes by this school @ Online

Master the art of sommelier service and tasting with our comprehensive exam. From theory to practical application, challenge yourself to excel in all aspects of wine expertise. Elevate your skills and earn your certification with our hands-on examination experience.

(14) All levels 21 and older
$395
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+3950 pts
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Wine 101

San Francisco Wine School See all classes by this school @ Online

Uncover the essentials of wine, from the vineyard to the glass. Gain confidence as you learn to decode labels, taste and describe wine, and navigate key grape varieties and styles. Sample six wines to explore their structure and flavors while mastering tips on buying, storage, and pairing for any occasion.

(14) All levels 21 and older
$145
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+1450 pts
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Intro to California Wines

San Francisco Wine School See all classes by this school @ Online

Uncover the diversity of California’s wine scene, from the iconic Napa Valley to the ancient vines of Lodi and the sunlit slopes of Santa Barbara. Taste six standout wines as we delve into the unique grapes, regions, and styles that put California on the global wine map. Discover why California continues to challenge the world’s best.

(14) All levels 21 and older
$145
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+1450 pts
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Tasting, Chemistry & Flaws

San Francisco Wine School See all classes by this school @ Online

Refine your sensory skills with a deep dive into the art and science of wine tasting. This immersive experience guides you through the visual, aromatic, and textural aspects that reveal a wine’s unique identity. Learn how sommeliers assess wine's structure, style, and quality, and gain the expertise to detect subtle winemaking flaws—all through guided blind tastings of select wines.

(14) All levels 21 and older
$165
Attend
+1650 pts
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Intro to French Wines

San Francisco Wine School See all classes by this school @ Online

Explore the elegance and diversity of French wines, from celebrated classics like Champagne and Bordeaux to rare gems that showcase France's vinous heritage. Savor six exceptional wines as we guide you through the unique grapes, styles, and traditions of France’s premier regions. Elevate your appreciation for the nation that set the standard in winemaking.

(14) All levels 21 and older
$145
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+1450 pts
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WSET Level 2 Award in Wines (Self-Paced)

Wine Education Institute See all classes by this school @ Virtual Classroom

Explore the diverse world of wines with a comprehensive focus on grape varieties, global regions, and production techniques. Designed for industry professionals and passionate enthusiasts, this course offers invaluable insights into wine production, tasting methods, and food pairing principles essential for a deeper understanding of the wine industry.

(1) Intermediate 21 and older
Free Info Session

28 sessions

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Temperate Climate Wines of the World

San Francisco Wine School See all classes by this school @ Online

Discover how temperate climates influence the unique characteristics of wines from regions like Central France, Italy, Spain, and California. Explore the impact of moderate temperatures on both red and white varieties such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Tempranillo, and Nebbiolo. Sample 6-8 wines to compare Old World and New World expressions, highlighting the balance of these ideal growing conditions.

(14) All levels 21 and older
$165
Attend
+1650 pts
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Intro to Italian Wines

San Francisco Wine School See all classes by this school @ Online

Discover Italy’s most iconic wines, from the bold Barolo to the celebrated Brunello, and meet the rule-breakers and sparkling masters shaping Italian wine today. Sample six handpicked wines, each reflecting the unique grapes, styles, and traditions of Italy's famed wine regions. Expand your palate and explore the diversity of Italy’s most renowned appellations.

(14) All levels 21 and older
$145
Attend
+1450 pts
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Blind Tasting Thick-Skinned Red Wines

San Francisco Wine School See all classes by this school @ Online

Refine your blind tasting skills with Master Sommelier David Glancy as you dissect thick-skinned red wines. From jammy to tannic, explore global regions and grape varieties to discern their unique characteristics. Elevate your expertise in this advanced workshop, part of the Blind Tasting program.

(14) Advanced 21 and older
$165
Attend
+1650 pts
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Warm Climate Wines of the World

San Francisco Wine School See all classes by this school @ Online

Explore how warm climates shape the bold and ripe wines from regions like Southern France, Spain, South America, and Australia. Discover the influence of elevated temperatures on grape varieties such as Grenache, Syrah, Malbec, and Cabernet. Sample 6-8 wines to compare classic Old World and New World styles from some of the world's sunniest wine regions.

(14) All levels 21 and older
$165
Attend
+1650 pts
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WSET Level 3 Award in Wines (Self-Paced)

Wine Education Institute See all classes by this school @ Virtual Classroom

Master the intricacies of wine production and evaluation with the WSET Level 3 Award in Wines. Ideal for wine enthusiasts and industry professionals, this self-paced qualification provides a deep understanding of global wine regions and styles, equipping you to confidently assess wine quality and advise effectively in various settings.

(1) Advanced 21 and older
$980

48 sessions

Attend
+9800 pts
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Blind Tasting Bubbles, Botrytis & Fortified Wines

San Francisco Wine School See all classes by this school @ Online

Elevate your tasting skills with Master Sommelier David Glancy, exploring challenging flights of bubbles, botrytis, and fortified wines. Dive deep into global regions and styles, deciphering the influences of grape, terroir, and winemaking practices. Join this advanced blind tasting journey to refine your palate and expertise.

(14) Advanced 21 and older
$165
Attend
+1650 pts
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Blind Wine Tasting Timing & Technique Drills

San Francisco Wine School See all classes by this school @ Online

Sharpen your blind tasting skills with focused drills designed to enhance speed, accuracy, and technique. Guided by a Master Sommelier, you'll refine your ability to assess wines quickly and effectively while mastering test-taking strategies for advanced evaluations. Elevate your tasting precision and efficiency with expert guidance and hands-on practice.

(14) Advanced 21 and older
$165
Attend
+1650 pts
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WSET Level 1 Award in Wines: Introduction to Wine (Self-Paced)

Wine Education Institute See all classes by this school @ Virtual Classroom

Discover the art of wine appreciation and develop the skills to accurately describe and pair wines with food. Perfect for new trade members in the restaurant and retail sectors, as well as enthusiastic wine lovers seeking a comprehensive overview of wine knowledge.

(1) Beginner 21 and older
$280
Attend
+2800 pts
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Pinot Noirs of the World

San Francisco Wine School See all classes by this school @ Online

Discover the complexities of Pinot Noir as you explore its origins, global expressions, and defining characteristics. Through a guided blind tasting, compare how climate, soil, and tradition shape this delicate yet captivating varietal. Uncover both the nuances and common threads that make Pinot Noir a favorite among wine lovers and an essential study for professionals.

(14) All levels 21 and older
$145
Attend
+1450 pts
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Reviews for Sommelier Classes in Chicago

Sommelier Classes in Chicago are rated 4.5 stars based on 584 verified reviews from actual CourseHorse.com purchasers.

  • War and Wine: Grand Cru of Wine

    Reviewed by Barb W. on 2/25/2024
    Entertaining. Super informative! Fun and well paced! Would recommend to wine and history lovers as well as non-lovers who want to learn and come away with a new appreciation!
  • Wine Tasting: Becoming a Wine Connoisseur

    Reviewed by Lisa W. on 9/15/2022
    My husband and I took this course as a special date night and LOVED it! It was fun, informative, engaging, and delicious! We learned a lot about wines and the instructor was extremely knowledgeable about all the different wines from around the world and was able to answer every question asked during the tasting and smelling.
  • Wine 101

    Reviewed by Brooke S. on 1/25/2021
    We had a super fun time during this course! Great instructor and lots of fun!
  • Wine Tasting: Becoming a Wine Connoisseur

    Anonymous review on 12/15/2019
    The instructor was very engaging and happy to answer all questions. The class was a lot of fun!
  • Wine 101

    Reviewed by Margaret Y. on 1/4/2019
    The class was more interesting than I had thought it would be. It was informative, the drinking was fun & I learned a more sophisticated way of describing the quality of wine. A lot of information was given during that 2-hour span & I got more intrigued with wine than ever before. It was a very interesting & highly recommended lesson for all wine drinkers.
  • Wine Tasting: Becoming a Wine Connoisseur

    Anonymous review on 4/22/2018
    A really great value. Learned enough to know I want to learn more!
  • Wine Tasting: Becoming a Wine Connoisseur

    Anonymous review on 4/22/2018
    Instructor had a wealth of knowledge on all things wine. We tasted a variety of wines and had a nice praint out of all the information we went over.

Discover the Best Sommelier Classes in Chicago

For anyone fascinated by the nuanced world of wines, taking sommelier classes in Chicago is a thrilling opportunity not to be missed. These classes provide a comprehensive exploration of wine appreciation, helping participants enhance their palates while learning the finer points of wine service and tasting. Whether you are a wine novice or someone looking to deepen your expertise, there are classes for every level. With skillfully designed courses available both online and in-person, Chicago hosts an impressive array of sommelier classes that can help transform your wine knowledge from basic to expert level.

Why Learn About Wine? The Benefits of Taking Sommelier Classes in Chicago

Learning about wines offers numerous benefits that extend beyond the glass. It enriches dining experiences, enhances social interactions, and opens doors to rewarding career opportunities in the wine and hospitality industries. Knowing how to pair wine with food can make you a sought-after host, while understanding the nuances of wine production can elevate your appreciation for the beverage.

  • Enhances Hosting Skills: Impress family and friends by knowing how to pair the perfect wines with meals.
  • Career Opportunities: Enter the dynamic fields of hospitality and catering or explore roles as a wine educator or consultant.
  • Improved Taste Recognition: Develop an ability to identify various wine flavors and characteristics, enhancing your tasting experience.
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow wine enthusiasts and professionals, fostering relationships that can lead to new opportunities.
  • Cultural Learning: Discover the history and culture associated with different wine regions, enhancing your global perspective.

What Will You Learn in Sommelier Classes?

Sommelier classes cover a wide spectrum of knowledge related to wine, from the basics of wine identification to advanced tasting techniques. Each session is tailored to enrich participants’ understanding of wine, making it accessible for everyone, even beginners.

  • Wine Classification: Learn about various types of wines and how to categorize them based on flavor profiles and regions.
  • Tasting Techniques: Master the art of tasting, including identifying aromas and qualities of different wines.
  • Food Pairing: Understand the principles of pairing food with wine effectively to enhance dining experiences.
  • Wine Regions: Gain insights on wine-producing regions around the world and the unique characteristics they impart to their wines.
  • Winemaking Process: Explore the detailed processes involved in winemaking, from grape selection to fermentation and aging.
  • Wine Storage: Learn best practices for storing and serving wine, including ideal temperatures and methods of aeration.
  • Decoding Labels: Learn how to read wine labels and what they indicate about the contents of the bottle.
  • Wine Trends: Stay updated on current trends in the wine industry, including emerging varietals and sustainable practices.

Common Challenges in Learning About Wine and How Classes Help

While wine education can be rewarding, several common challenges may arise, particularly for beginners. Structured classes can provide the guidance and support needed to overcome these hurdles.

  • Information Overload: The extensive range of wines and terms can be overwhelming; classes help simplify this with structured learning.
  • Lack of Practical Experience: Hands-on wine tasting sessions allow participants to apply theory effectively in a real-world context.
  • Poor Taste Discrimination: Developing palate recognition can be difficult; guided tastings refine sensory skills gradually.
  • Confidence in Pairing: Pairing wine with food can be confusing; classes offer tested techniques for effective combinations.
  • Exposure to Variety: With so many wines available, classes introduce participants to a diverse selection for broader experience.

Top 6 Sommelier Courses in Chicago

Here are the top sommelier courses in Chicago, offering both in-person and online options to suit your learning preferences.

  • Raise a Glass - The Chopping Block Lincoln Square: This engaging class introduces participants to food-friendly wines through tastings curated by Advanced Sommelier Mary Ross. Gain insight into tasting profiles and ideal pairings while enjoying delightful snacks.
  • War and Wine: Grand Cru of Wine - The Chopping Block Lincoln Square: Experience the intriguing stories of French winemakers during WWII, paired with exquisite wines from leading regions. This class not only enhances wine knowledge but also brings history to life.
  • Wine Tasting: Becoming a Wine Connoisseur - Discovery Center: This comprehensive workshop focuses on wine vocabulary and tasting techniques while students sample classical grape varietals. Ideal for anyone looking to deepen their wine appreciation.
  • Wine Tasting: Sparkling, Rose, Orange - Discovery Center: Venture beyond traditional wines in this class, exploring the unique characteristics of sparkling, rosé, and orange wines with expert guidance and numerous tasting opportunities.
  • Bubbles and Sparkling Wines - Online: Join from anywhere through a virtual platform in this class that pairs sparkling wines with local cheeses. Kits will be shipped for a comprehensive, enjoyable tasting experience.
  • WSET Level 1 Award in Wines: Introduction to Wine - Wine Education Institute: For those serious about wine, this self-paced, extensive introduction course covers wine appreciation and sensory evaluation, equipping participants with the fundamental skills necessary in the industry.

What Do Reviews Say About Sommelier Classes in Chicago?

Overall, participants express high satisfaction with sommelier classes in Chicago, praising the informative nature of the courses.

  • War and Wine: Grand Cru of Wine: "Entertaining, super informative! Fun and well-paced! Would recommend to wine and history lovers."
  • Wine Tasting: Becoming a Wine Connoisseur: "My husband and I took this course as a special date night and loved it! It was fun, informative, engaging, and delicious!"
  • Wine Tasting: Becoming a Wine Connoisseur: "The instructor was very engaging and happy to answer all questions. The class was a lot of fun."
  • Wine Tasting: Becoming a Wine Connoisseur: "Instructor had a wealth of knowledge. We tasted a variety of wines and enjoyed our time thoroughly."

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How much do sommelier classes cost on average in Chicago? Prices for sommelier classes vary, with introductory classes typically around $40 to $200.
  • Are there any special materials required for this type of class? Most classes will provide materials and tastings; however, students may need wine glasses and a notebook.
  • Will prospective participants need any existing skills? No prior knowledge is required, as courses cater to all skill levels, from beginner to advanced.
  • What is the typical class size? Class sizes can vary, typically ranging from 10 to 30 students to maintain an interactive environment.
  • Can I take classes online? Yes, many courses are available online, providing convenience and flexibility for participants.
  • What if I have dietary restrictions? Instructors are usually accommodating, so participants are encouraged to inform them of any food allergies or dietary needs in advance.

Explore the World of Wine

In summary, sommelier classes in Chicago present an extraordinary opportunity to dive deep into the world of wine. Beyond learning about tasting and pairing, participants explore the history and cultural significance of this beloved beverage. With a variety of classes available for different skill levels, you're sure to find one that matches your interest and expertise. Whether you're looking to enhance your appreciation or embark on a career in the wine industry, taking a class will set you on the right path. Take the first step towards becoming a knowledgeable sommelier and elevate your wine game today.

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