San Francisco Wine School
Classes in San Francisco
San Francisco Wine School is the largest wine school in the U.S., offering a comprehensive approach to wine study. With a state-of-the-art facility and industry-leading instructors, they provide educational programs and workshops for serious students and wine enthusiasts to advance their careers or pursue their passions.
48 classes with availability
Somm Essentials Service & Tasting Exam
San Francisco Wine School See all classes by this school @ 415 Grand Ave, San Francisco, CA
Show your knowledge and skill across theory, service, and tasting in this comprehensive exam. Build industry-recognized credentials by passing a written theory test, a hands-on service and wine pairing evaluation, and a blind tasting analysis. A key step for those pursuing professional sommelier certification.
Sun. Dec 13th, 10am–1pm PT
(3 hours)
Blind Tasting Thin-Skinned Red Wines
San Francisco Wine School See all classes by this school @ 415 Grand Ave, San Francisco, CA
Sharpen your palate with an advanced blind tasting that focuses on classic thin-skinned red grape varieties. Investigate how regional and varietal traits shape aroma, texture, and structure in some of the world's most subtle wines. With expert guidance throughout, build your confidence in identifying key characteristics across challenging flights.
Wed. Nov 18th, 10:30am–1pm PT
(2 hours & 30 minutes)
Sauvignon Blancs of the World (Blind Tasting)
San Francisco Wine School See all classes by this school @ 415 Grand Ave, San Francisco, CA
Explore the many faces of Sauvignon Blanc in a guided blind tasting that travels around the globe. From crisp and mineral-driven to deeply herbaceous and fruit-forward, see how climate, soil, and tradition shape this beloved grape. Uncover its origins, signature characteristics, and the common threads that define its style. A great fit for wine lovers looking to refine their palate.
Fri. Nov 20th, 6–8pm PT
(2 hours)
Wines of Northern France
San Francisco Wine School See all classes by this school @ 415 Grand Ave, San Francisco, CA
Step into the renowned wines of Northern France and the cool climates that shape their character. From the elegance of Champagne to the distinct expressions of Alsace, Loire, and Burgundy, discover how terroir influences grape varieties and styles. Build a deeper grasp of this historic wine region and its impact on global winemaking traditions.
Mon. Nov 23rd, 6–9pm PT
(3 hours)
Loire Valley
San Francisco Wine School See all classes by this school @ 415 Grand Ave, San Francisco, CA
Step into one of France's most diverse wine regions, where dozens of AOCs follow the banks of the Loire. Sample everything from age-worthy Savennieres to crisp Sauvignon Blanc grown on ancient marl. Get a feel for the grapes, history, and terroir that make this region a treasure for wine lovers.
Tue. Nov 24th, 6–9pm PT
(3 hours)
Pinot Gris & Pinot Grigios of the World (Blind Tasting)
San Francisco Wine School See all classes by this school @ 415 Grand Ave, San Francisco, CA
Dive into the wide range of Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio expressions as you follow its global path from Alsace to Alto Adige and beyond. See how soil, climate, and elevation influence its style, from crisp and dry to rich and sweet. A guided blind tasting brings out the grape's regional diversity.
Fri. Nov 27th, 6–8pm PT
(2 hours)
Wines of Southern France
San Francisco Wine School See all classes by this school @ 415 Grand Ave, San Francisco, CA
Discover the bold, diverse wines of Southern France, where warm climates shape distinctive styles. From Bordeaux to Beaujolais, Rhône to Provence, explore regions that produce some of the world's most celebrated, inimitable wines. Learn how climate, terroir, and tradition influence these exceptional selections. Taste and uncover what truly sets them apart.
Mon. Nov 30th, 6–9pm PT
(3 hours)
Wines of Bordeaux
San Francisco Wine School See all classes by this school @ 415 Grand Ave, San Francisco, CA
Dive into the rich history, evolving styles, and distinctive terroirs of one of France's most celebrated wine regions. From dry whites to bold reds and luscious dessert wines, see how soil, grape, and tradition shape the Bordeaux blend. Build a deeper grasp of French wine labeling and EU regulations along the way.
Tue. Dec 1st, 6–9pm PT
(3 hours)
Blind Tasting Thick-Skinned Red Wines
San Francisco Wine School See all classes by this school @ 415 Grand Ave, San Francisco, CA
Sharpen your palate with Master Sommelier David Glancy in an advanced blind tasting of thick-skinned red wines. Investigate the range from jammy to tannic, dissecting global regions and grape varieties to tell regional identity apart from varietal character. Build your expertise through this essential workshop within the Advanced Blind Tasting program.
Wed. Dec 2nd, 10:30am–1pm PT
(2 hours & 30 minutes)
Intro to World Wines
San Francisco Wine School See all classes by this school @ 415 Grand Ave, San Francisco, CA
Step into a global journey through the world's top wine regions, comparing classic Old World styles with their New World counterparts. Explore the distinctive characteristics of wines from France, Italy, Spain, and beyond, while uncovering the EU labeling system and its global counterparts. Sample 5 to 7 wines to see how climate and grapes shape distinct wine profiles.
Dec 5th
3–5pm PT
$145
8 Seats Left
Jan 28th
6–8pm PT
$145
8 Seats Left
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Sat. Dec 5th, 3–5pm PT
(2 hours)
Rhone Valley
San Francisco Wine School See all classes by this school @ 415 Grand Ave, San Francisco, CA
Explore the dual identities of the Rhône, where the north's steep slopes and structured wines stand apart from the expansive, sun-drenched vineyards of the south. See how soil, climate, and geography shape two distinct wine cultures along a single river. Trace the rich history and bold expressions that define this iconic French region.
Tue. Dec 8th, 6–9pm PT
(3 hours)
Wines of Italy
San Francisco Wine School See all classes by this school @ 415 Grand Ave, San Francisco, CA
Make sense of Italy's complex wine world as you tour its varied regions, native grapes, and distinctive terroirs. From the steep Alpine vineyards of Piedmont to Etna's volcanic slopes, see how climate and tradition leave their mark on each bottle. Sharpen your understanding of key regions like Tuscany and Veneto, and gain the confidence to explore this rich wine landscape.
Mon. Dec 7th, 6–9pm PT
(3 hours)
Blind Tasting Bubbles, Botrytis & Fortified Wines
San Francisco Wine School See all classes by this school @ 415 Grand Ave, San Francisco, CA
Sharpen your palate with master sommelier David Glancy as you work through the complexities of bubbles, botrytis, and fortified wines. Investigate the nuances of each, breaking down influences from grape variety to terroir. Build your expertise through this advanced blind tasting journey.
Wed. Dec 9th, 10:30am–1pm PT
(2 hours & 30 minutes)
Intro to Blind Wine Tasting
San Francisco Wine School See all classes by this school @ 415 Grand Ave, San Francisco, CA
Build the craft of blind wine tasting. Learn to evaluate wine structure and grow your tasting vocabulary. Grow your confidence in identifying your preferences and prepare for wine exams.
Dec 12th
3–5pm PT
$145
8 Seats Left
Feb 4th
6–8pm PT
$145
8 Seats Left
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Sat. Dec 12th, 3–5pm PT
(2 hours)
Wines of Spain, Portugal & Greece
San Francisco Wine School See all classes by this school @ 415 Grand Ave, San Francisco, CA
Take a journey through the deep traditions and creative innovations of Mediterranean winemaking across Spain, Portugal, and Greece. From bright sparkling Cavas and age-worthy Riojas to the bold wines of Douro and the sun-warmed Greek islands, see how climate, history, and culture come together to shape an extraordinary spectrum of styles and grape varieties.
Mon. Dec 14th, 6–9pm PT
(3 hours)
Provence, Languedoc & Roussillon
San Francisco Wine School See all classes by this school @ 415 Grand Ave, San Francisco, CA
Travel to the sun-soaked south of France to explore the rich heritage and vibrant wines of Provence, Languedoc, and Roussillon. From the birthplace of French wine to the origins of sparkling wine and fortified Vins Doux Naturels, each region offers its own distinct character. Discover the unique terroir and traditions that define this varied corner of the wine world.
Tue. Dec 15th, 6–9pm PT
(3 hours)
Wines of Germany & Eastern Europe
San Francisco Wine School See all classes by this school @ 415 Grand Ave, San Francisco, CA
Discover the rich wine traditions of Germany and Eastern Europe, where dynamic regions and centuries-old empires have shaped a remarkable range of styles. From Germany's crisp Rieslings and refined Spätburgunders to Austria's Grüner Veltliner and Hungary's iconic Tokaji, take a closer look at complex labels, varied grapes, and the lively character of these often-overlooked regions.
Mon. Dec 21st, 6–9pm PT
(3 hours)
Southwest France & Corsica
San Francisco Wine School See all classes by this school @ 415 Grand Ave, San Francisco, CA
Discover the hidden gems of Southwest France and Corsica, where ancient vineyards and distinctive grapes reveal a rich yet overlooked wine heritage. Examine why these regions, steeped in history, remain under the radar despite their depth and diversity. From pre-Bordeaux traditions to Mediterranean influences, uncover a side of France few have tasted.
Tue. Dec 22nd, 6–9pm PT
(3 hours)
Wines of North America
San Francisco Wine School See all classes by this school @ 415 Grand Ave, San Francisco, CA
Investigate the remarkable diversity of North American wines, from celebrated Napa Cabernet to Canada's renowned Icewine. This course digs into the rich history, distinctive climates, and innovative trailblazers shaping wines across California, Oregon, Washington, and beyond. Pick up insight into regional labeling laws, American Viticultural Areas, and the wine styles that define North America.
Mon. Dec 28th, 6–9pm PT
(3 hours)
Blind Wine Tasting Timing & Technique Drills
San Francisco Wine School See all classes by this school @ 415 Grand Ave, San Francisco, CA
Sharpen your blind tasting skills through focused drills built to lift your speed, accuracy, and technique. With a master sommelier guiding the way, you'll refine your ability to evaluate wines quickly and effectively while building strong test-taking strategies for advanced assessments. Strengthen your tasting precision and efficiency through expert guidance and hands-on practice.
Wed. Dec 16th, 10:30am–1pm PT
(2 hours & 30 minutes)
Reviews of San Francisco Wine School
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Wine List Development
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Intro to French Wines
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Wine 101
Very informative -
Rosé Wines of the World (Blind Tasting)
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Wines of North America
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Champagne and other Sparkling Wines of the World (Blind Tasting)
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Wines of Spain, Portugal & Greece
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Intro to California Wines
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Warm Climate Wines of the World
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Blind Wine Tasting: Aromas
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Wines of Northern France
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Intro to Italian Wines
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Wine 101
We had a super fun time during this course! Great instructor and lots of fun! -
Wine 101
Class itself was really good and enjoyable. Instructor was superb and fun. Pre-class instructions were a bit too much and not very clear. (Too many emails, too much info but also a bit unclear about what wines were required and how to get them in hand for those viewing out of SF area). -
2-Day Somm Intensive: Theory, Tasting & Service
Great overview of everything there is to know about wine -
Wine 101
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. -
California Wine Appellation Specialist Intensive
I just completed the three-day intensive course on California and was very pleased. We tasted over 68 wines and received many hours of in-depth information on a wide variety of topics related to California wine. The information was presented very clearly and the study book was consistent and easy to follow. David's inside knowledge of the wine industry, as well as his significant experience as a wine professional, enhanced the blind tastings and the lecture alike. His skills as a group educator are also excellent, so the sessions were all very engaging. The guest lecturers also had outstanding credentials, so we were able to get multiple viewpoints on the state of the industry. I took the course in DC, so the selection of wines from certain regions was limited. However, this was not at all detrimental to my experience. The student levels ranged from enthusiast to professional with both groups receiving the right level of attention throughout the course. Lastly, Kristen and Alex handled the administrative and organizational components professionally. I have no complaints and would recommend the SF Wine School, and this course, without reservation. -
California Wine Appellation Specialist Intensive
The CWAS course was fantastic! There was so much to learn and so many wines to experience. The instructors were outstanding, animated informative and fun. The course offered a wealth of information and was a truly remarkable validation of California's varied terroir. No question this was one of the best classes I have taken. I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to gain a greater appreciation of California wine. -
California Wine Appellation Specialist Intensive
CWAS is a complete program covering all California Appellations in a detailed and structured form. This intensive class is excellent for every wine passionate, from the industry or not, that would like to excel in this sector. All the teachers are professionals and succeed on transmitting their passion to every student. The online and in class material provided is very useful. Furthermore, the class animated by the special guests! I highly recommend San Francisco Wine School for all the wine lovers!
