Rosé isn’t just one shade of pink. From pale and crisp to bold and structured, this class explores the wide world of rosé styles. Taste six distinct wines and learn how grape variety, region, and winemaking technique shape flavor, color, and character. A perfect class for pink wine lovers!
Explore the elegant, expressive wines of Germany and France’s Alsace region—two neighbors with shared grapes but distinct styles. From crisp Rieslings to aromatic Gewürztraminer and beyond, taste how geography, history, and tradition influence balance and character. This class includes a guided tasting of six wines.
Journey through the sun-drenched vineyards of the Mediterranean, where coastal breezes and vibrant culture shape fresh, expressive wines. Explore selections from Spain, Italy, Greece, France, and beyond in this class celebrating seaside terroir and timeless tradition. Includes a tasting of six wines that capture the warmth of the Mediterranean.
$40 per person | $35 per club member | Click Here to Reserve
Discover the diverse and dynamic wines of Portugal, from the crisp, refreshing whites of Vinho Verde to the rich, robust reds of Alentejo. This class explores native grapes, regional traditions, and modern expressions that make Portuguese wine so exciting. Includes a guided tasting of six distinctive Portuguese wines.
Indulge your senses in Palate Play, a guided tasting of six wines paired with artisan cheeses and decadent chocolates. Discover perfect matches like sparkling wine with triple crème, Malbec with Pecorino, and Shiraz with dark chocolate. A playful and delicious journey through texture, flavor, and harmony in every bite and sip.
Explore two of Bordeaux’s most prestigious Right Bank appellations in this side-by-side tasting of Saint-Émilion and Pomerol. Compare Merlot-driven blends, discover subtle stylistic differences, and learn what makes these regions royal in reputation and character. Includes a guided tasting of six wines showcasing Right Bank elegance and power.
Uncover the bold rivalry between two of Spain’s most iconic wine regions in Ribera del Duero vs Rioja: Tempranillo Titans. This tasting class explores how climate, aging, and tradition shape the distinct styles of Tempranillo from these neighboring regions. From Rioja’s elegance and oak influence to Ribera’s power and depth, you’ll learn what sets them apart—and which reigns supreme on your palate. This class includes a tasting of six wines.
Raise a glass to National Prosecco Week with a fun, bubbly celebration of Italy’s most beloved sparkler. Explore the refreshing styles, regional nuances, and winemaking traditions that make Prosecco a global favorite. Perfect for sparkling wine lovers and festive sippers alike. This class includes a tasting of six Proseccos.
Take a coast-to-coast journey through America’s top Cabernet Sauvignon regions. From the power of Napa Valley to the elegance of Washington State and hidden gems in between, discover how climate, soil, and style shape this iconic grape. Includes a guided tasting of six distinctive Cabernets.
$950 - Includes course tuition, study materials, postage for mailing of certificates and pins, and the final examination
This 5-class course will be held at Echelon Wine Bar in Leesburg on the following dates: June 3, 10, 17, 24, July 1 with an in person exam on July 8 -or- an online exam on July 12. Each class meets from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. The in person exam on July 8 is from 6:00pm – 7:00pm, and the online exam is from 10:00am -11:00am EDT (please read important information regarding the exams further down in the description).
The aim of the course is to focus on the key grape varieties and regions of the world. While the course provides an overview of the wines of the world, including main wine grapes and regions, it also covers factors affecting wine quality and style, grape growing, and basic winemaking practices. The course emphasizes tasting assessment and the skills required to describe the aromas and tastes of wine. It helps to develop fundamental tasting and assessment skills. During each class session, students will taste 4-6 wines. The exam takes 1 hour and consists of 50 multiple choice questions. Those who pass the exam receive the WSET Level 2 Award in Wines, an internationally recognized credential in the wine industry.
The course fee includes the 5 classes at Echelon Wine Bar; PDF copies of the class lectures; the WSET course book, study guide, and guide to the systematic approach to tasting wine; practice quizzes; wines for tasting during each class session; and the exam at Echelon Wine Bar.
Note: This is a structured educational class with seated tastings and classroom style lectures.
17 Guided Learning Hours (including one hour for the examination) and 11 hours’ private study.
Click Here to Register
Please note: Registration is done through Capital Wine School
Go beyond Barolo and explore the hidden gems of Italy’s Piedmont region. Taste expressive wines made from Barbera, Nebbiolo, Dolcetto, Arneis, and Moscato. From crisp whites to bold reds and aromatic sparklers, discover Piedmont’s rich diversity beyond its most famous bottle. Includes a tasting of six wines.
Discover the radiant charm of three sun-loving white Rhône varietals in this golden-hour-inspired tasting. Explore the floral, rich, and textured profiles of Marsanne, Roussanne, and Viognier, and learn how they shine solo or in blends. A perfect class for fans of full-bodied whites with character. This class includes a tasting of six wines.
Dive into the heart of California wine country with California Showdown: Napa Valley vs Sonoma. This engaging class pits two legendary regions against each other, exploring the bold, structured wines of Napa and the elegant, expressive styles of Sonoma. Learn how climate, terroir, and winemaking traditions shape their unique profiles—and decide which region captures your palate. This class includes a tasting of six wines
The world of wine is diverse and delightful and sparkling wines certainly add a dash of pizzazz to your glass. From luxurious Champagne to casual sippers like Prosecco, let's embark on a journey to explore this effervescent world of bubbles. Expand your breadth of bubbles into the world of Spanish Cava, French Crémant, Austrian Sekt and beyond. Tasting of six (6) sparkling wines.
Born in the Old World, these popular grapes gradually took root in the New World, picking up unique nuances. One of the great joys of wine is exploring how the same grape can reveal exciting and nuanced differences depending on where it’s made. Join us as we look at some classic grapes and styles from the Old World and showcase one New World region where each has flourished, creating new benchmarks and expressions. Tasting includes six wines.
Mendoza is a large province (nearly the size of Illinois) located in central-western Argentina. The massive Andes Mountains create a dramatic skyline in the west and also play an important role in Mendoza's wines.
The Andes act as a rain shadow, stopping wet Pacific Ocean weather from the Argentine highlands. It makes Argentina one of the sunniest and driest wine-growing regions with less than 9 inches of rain per year. (As dry as the Gobi Desert!)
Fortunately, ample snowmelt from the Andes irrigates the vineyards, making it possible to produce wine. Explore specific regions in Mendoza including Maipú Luján de Cuyo, Uco Valley and San Rafael. Tasting of six wines.
The Iberian Peninsula is home to many notable red wines. Tempranillo, often tannic and full-bodied, is the signature grape of Spain, and Port, a fortified wine, has been produced in Portugal since the seventeenth century and is sought after around the world. Join us as we taste through wines of these two underrated wine regions of Spain & Portugal. Tasting includes 6 (2 oz) pours of each wine.
While California’s Napa Valley and Sonoma still reign supreme as the top wine regions in the United States, there are plenty of wine regions across the nation that are rapidly growing in prominence. Not only are these regions producing world-class wines, but they are also helping to create the basis of a thriving wine industry – everything from wine tourism to wine festivals. Tasting of six (6) wines from regions of Oregon, California, Washington, NY State, Virginia and Texas.
If there is French wine that everyone deserves to taste, it’s probably Châteauneuf-du-Pape. It’s like the gateway drug to French wine. Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a French wine appellation known for its bold Grenache-based red blends. Officially, the region makes both red and white wines with up to 13 different grapes. (Unofficially, there are 20 varieties used in the region!). Let’s dig into the details of this historic wine and find out why Châteauneuf-du-Pape is the Southern Rhône’s most exclusive appellation. Tasting includes six wines.
Rosés are a growing trend and there are all types of rosé from around the world and three main ways to produce this wine: direct press, blush blend and saignée. Join us as we taste through some great rosé wines and explore pink wines including some bubbles. Tasting includes 6 wines.
In a Parisian hotel 46 years ago, some of France's biggest wine experts came together for a blind tasting.
The finest French wines were up against upstarts from California. France made the world's best wines and Napa Valley was not yet on the map -- so the result was believed to be obvious. Instead, the greatest underdog tale in wine history was about to unfold.
Taste through some of these legendary wines and learn more about this amazing story!
Click Here to Reserve - $55 per person | $50 per club member
As it is frequently noted, Italians have a firm sense of identity that is rooted in their home province, and wine — often made with indigenous grapes that express a local character. Let us share these wines with you revealing the complexity of Italy's history and love of wine. Tasting includes 6 wines.
Click Here to Reserve | $40 per person | $35 per club member
Join us for an adventurous, fun, interactive evening of wine trivia and tastings. For wine lovers and connoisseurs alike, come test your wine knowledge and palate for a fun tasting challenge! Tasting of six (6) wines.
The Southern Hemisphere offers some of the most delicious and affordable wines in the world. With its range of grapes and climates, the variety of wines produced south of the Equator is unparalleled. Taste wines from Argentina, Chile, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa & Uruguay. Tasting includes six (6) wines.
Join Todd and Aimee for a comparative tasting of Lost Creek wines vs other famous wine regions around the world. We will be comparing the following...
2022 Barrel Select Chardonnay vs Sonoma Chardonnay
2019 Allure vs French Bordeaux Blend
2021 Tannat vs Uruguayan Tannat
$45 per person | $40 club member
Champagne is the most famous region in the world known for its magical bubbles. Champagne, like all wines, is an experience for all of the senses – color, aroma, texture, flavor and in this case sound too. Learning to recognize and define the distinctions in Champagne is what makes tasting Champagne especially fascinating. Tasting of six Champagnes from France.
Join us for our monthly Sip & Savor Social. Enjoy a tasting of 10 wines for $10. Make a reservation for 11am, 12pm or 1pm and stop anytime during your time slot to taste the 10 wines hand selected by our Wine Director. Interested in enjoying the brunch menu please be sure to make a separate reservation for a table during this time.
Please note: This is a walk around tasting. Wines will be available for purchase and by-the-glass at special pricing for this event only. Please make a separate reservation if you would like to dine with us at a table. Seating is limited. Bar seating is available on first-come first-serve basis.
The texture of a wine is the tactile sensation it leaves in the mouth, and it's often described using words that refer to textiles. Cashmere and silk are two fabrics that can be used to describe the texture of a wine: Cashmere bering a soft, warm, and delicate texture and silk as a delicate and caressing texture. Tasting of six (6) wines.
Located in northwest Italy, Piedmont sits at the foot of the western Alps. This unique geographical spot lends two key features that influence the region’s climate: the cool Alps and the balmy Mediterranean. Home to Barolo & Barbaresco, Piedmont offers stunning nebbiolo wines as a start to this majestic wine country. Tasting includes six (6) wines.
For thousands of years, wine has been an integral part of human history and culture, and the techniques and processes used to produce it have evolved through the long history of winemaking. Let's taste through some wines steeped in tradition and honestly still making the great wines using these techniques event today. Tasting of 6 wines.
$899 - Includes course tuition, study materials, postage for mailing of certificates and pins, and the final examination
This 5-class course will be held at Echelon Wine Bar in Leesburg on the following dates: March 4, 11, 18, 24 and April 1 with the exam on April 8. Each class meets from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. The exam also begins at 6:00 p.m.
The aim of the course is to focus on the key grape varieties and regions of the world. While the course provides an overview of the wines of the world, including main wine grapes and regions, it also covers factors affecting wine quality and style, grape growing, and basic winemaking practices. The course emphasizes tasting assessment and the skills required to describe the aromas and tastes of wine. It helps to develop fundamental tasting and assessment skills. During each class session, students will taste 4-6 wines. The exam takes 1 hour and consists of 50 multiple choice questions. Those who pass the exam receive the WSET Level 2 Award in Wines, an internationally recognized credential in the wine industry.
The course fee includes the 5 classes at Echelon Wine Bar; PDF copies of the class lectures; the WSET course book, study guide, and guide to the systematic approach to tasting wine; practice quizzes; wines for tasting during each class session; and the exam at Echelon Wine Bar.
Note: This is a structured educational class with seated tastings and classroom style lectures.
17 Guided Learning Hours (including one hour for the examination) and 11 hours’ private study.
Click Here to Register - $899 per person
Please note: Registration is done through Capital Wine School
$395 – Includes course tuition, study guide, postage for mailing of certificates and pins, and the final examination
This one day course meets in person at Echelon Wine Bar in Leesburg. There is no pre-study required; students will receive their study materials when they arrive for class.
Approximate Schedule
9:00am: Class begins
12:00pm: Short break for lunch*
12:30pm: Class resumes
2:15pm: Examination
*Lunch is not included in the registration fee. Students may bring their own lunch or visit one of the local eateries.
6 Guided Learning Hours, including 45 minutes for the examination
This class covers the main types of wine, the most common grape varieties, wine service, storing and serving wine, tasting technique, how to describe the smell and taste of wine, and the basics of pairing food and wine. During the class, students taste eight different wines. Those who pass the exam receive the WSET Level 1 Award in Wines.
Click Here to Register - $395 per person
Please note: Registration is done through Capital Wine School
The French Wine region of Burgundy (aka “Bourgogne”) may be small in size, but its influence is huge in the world of vino. Yes, it is home to some of the most expensive wines in the known universe, but there are also tasty and affordable wines. Tasting includes six wines.
Join us for our monthly Sip & Savor Social. Enjoy a tasting of 10 wines for $10. Make a reservation for 11am, 12pm or 1pm and stop anytime during your time slot to taste the 10 wines hand selected by our Wine Director. Interested in enjoying the brunch menu please be sure to make a separate reservation for a table during this time.
Please note: This is a walk around tasting. Wines will be available for purchase and by-the-glass at special pricing for this event only. Please make a separate reservation if you would like to dine with us at a table. Seating is limited. Bar seating is available on first-come first-serve basis.
There is a Spanish wine for every drinker. From the rolling hills of Rioja up to the high plains of Ribera del Duero, down to the coastal estuaries of Rías Baixas in Galicia, the Basque Country, the island of Mallorca and beyond, Spain offers something for every palate. Tasting includes 6 wines.
Valentine’s Day is a moment to celebrate love and to show your appreciation for that special someone in your life. Celebrating Valentine’s Day with your partner or with friends? Wine is your perfect beverage of choice. Come enjoy wines perfect for this holiday from crisp whites, to beautiful rosés and juicy reds. Tasting includes 6 wines.
