The Deal

A course of five wine tasting lessons will see students learning the key flavour elements; fruit, sweetness, acidity, tannin and alcohol. Initially, they’ll learn the fundamentals behind tasting techniques, while each session will feature plenty of practice slurping. One week will be dedicated to white wines, and another to reds, with clients sampling different grapes and studying their various characteristics. A look at bubblies and Champagnes will help students learn to tell the difference, while the final week can unearth the mysteries behind ports and sherries, and how to choose a great pairing for dessert wines.

The Merchant

The London Wine Academy aims to share out wine-based expertise in an unpretentious atmosphere. A team of Master of Wine trained experts host one-off tasting days and ongoing courses, with levels one and two available in general wine knowledge, and more specialised masterclasses focusing on a specific tipple. Meanwhile, various central London venues host group workshops, experience days and corporate events for clients to swill, sniff and slurp in style.