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.
Event details
Wine has an eight millenia long history but the past two centuries have seen wine transformed from a drink reserved for kings to an anyday treat. Discover how wine conquered the world and discuss where it might go next in our final tasting of the series.
Uncover the answers to questions like "what do vaccines, Comté and winemaking have in common?" and "how did the world's oldest vines end up in Australia?" as you experience wine from a entirely new perspective.
Over the course of the evening, you'll enjoy a selection of wine curated to show just how much winemaking has evolved in recent history including a mini "Judgement of Paris" and more!
Example wine list
- 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)
Other sessions in this series
- Wednesday 17 January: from the cradle of wine to Ancient Rome
- Wednesday 24 January: Burgundy, Bordeaux and beyond
Purchase a series ticket and save £20!
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.
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.