Take a dive into the weird and wonderful history of wine as we trace its humble beginnings in the Caucasus to the high tables of kings and queens and into kitchen cabinets across the world.
Event details
This three-part series uncovers the true stories that explain the when, where and how of the history of the wine. Each week we'll explore a different period of history and sample a range of wines that reflect the style of times gone by. Book the series to save £20!
Wednesday 17 January: from the cradle of wine to Ancient Rome
Uncover the murky origins of winemaking and follow its journey across mountain and sea to the heart of the Roman Empire while sipping wine that will transport you to the age of antiquity.
- Sad Meli - Kudurouli/Tsolikouri 2022 (Georgia)
- Zorah - Voski (Armenia)
- Mylonas - Retsina (Greece)
- A Roman surprise!
- Santa Cristina - Vin Santo (Italy)
- Chateau La Negly - La Côte (France)
Wednesday 24 January: Burgundy, Bordeaux and beyond
Chart the rise of some of the world's most famous wine regions and discover the unexpected origins of Champagne, Sherry and Chardonnay while sipping wine fit for royalty.
- Hacienda La Parrilla - El Pinto (Spain)
- Kloster Eberback - "Crescentia" Steinberger Riesling Spatlese (Germany)
- A Medieval surprise!
- Château Thieuley - Bordeaux Clairet (France)
- Domaine J Laurens - Limoux Methode Ancestrale (France)
- D'Oliveira - Verdelho 1912 (Madeira)
Wednesday 31 January: the making of modern wine
Follow the humble grape as it sets sail on the high seas. A tale of imperialism, globalisation, and innovation complemented by a flight of wine that shows how dramatically winemaking has changed over the past two centuries.
- Domaine Rolet - Arbois Chardonnay 2019 (France)
- CVNE - Monopole "Classico" White Rioja 2016 (Spain)
- De Martino - Old Vine White 2018 (Chile)
- A mini-"Judgement of Paris"
- Domaine Huet - "Haut Lieu" Vouvray Moelleux 1989 (France)
- Harvey's Bristol - Cream (Spain/England)
- Teliani Valley - 'Winery 97' Kakhuri No. 8 2020 (Georgia)
Tasting level
Beginner: No prior knowledge required, only enthusiasm! Perfect if you want to try something new, brush up on the basics, or taste some delicious drinks.
About the presenter, Sam Povey DipWSET
Sam Povey is a wine educator from Aberdeen, Scotland. He first discovered his interest in wine at university and pursued it by travelling to Georgia and his local wine shop. Before joining the industry, he was an economics tutor but fell into wine when he took a job behind the bar at an urban winery. He then moved into wine and food retail in north London: managing wine lists, hosting tastings and training staff. Today, he teaches the WSET Levels 1-2 Awards in Wines and hosts events at WSET School London. Read our Q&A with Sam.
Booking terms and conditions
Payment in full must be made at the time of booking and places are not confirmed until payment has been received. Unfortunately we cannot take provisional bookings.
Cancellations and transfers
- Cancellations and transfers can be made up to two weeks before the event.
- Cancellations within 10 working days are non-refundable and cannot be transferred to another event.
- If you need to change a name on the booking, please give us as much notice as possible.
- WSET School London reserves the right to cancel an event. If necessary, a full refund or transfer will be offered.
Please note: The sample list and speaker/s may be subject to change.