Our Sommelier Bootcamp is back!
Join us for a 2-day immersive experience into the craft of a sommelier, featuring engaging tastings, insightful lectures, and hands-on activities. This 6-hour bootcamp offers practical, in-person learning led by Scott Thomas, a wine industry expert with over 20 years of experience. Scott will guide you through dynamic sessions on the sensory analysis of twenty classic wines from various regions, covering theory, cause and effect, service, storage, and wine vocabulary. No topic is off-limits in this comprehensive exploration.
Scott, a seasoned educator and accomplished sommelier, is currently the wine director at Restaurant Olivia. With an extensive background in fine dining, wine sales and distribution, and education, Scott provides real-world knowledge and a unique opportunity to train with an industry insider.
This bootcamp is designed for everyone, from novices to seasoned enthusiasts. Scott's inclusive teaching style makes complex concepts approachable and digestible.
Our core value is to make wine education fun and engaging while connecting with the rich cultures behind each bottle and building bridges between makers, regions, and wine lovers worldwide.
Whether you're preparing for a wine examination, working in hospitality, or simply eager to connect with fellow wine enthusiasts, join us on this exciting journey as we explore the world of wine together. Learn more about Scott HERE.
We are proud to offer this educational opportunity in partnership with Vintus, featuring the classic regional wines of Champagne Bollinger, William Fevre, Chateau Boutisse, Guigal, Tomassi, Chateau Montelena, Quinta do Noval, Dog Point and Mitolo, amongst others.
When: Session 1: Saturday, September 7th, 2024: 11:00am-2:00pm
Session 2: Sunday, September 8th, 10:00am - 1:00pm
Where: Birch Road Social Club: 3845 Lipan St, Denver
What to bring: writing utensils, notebook, a “waiter’s” wine key, and an open mind
What is provided: 20 regionally-classic wines to taste in-class; wine tasting booklet; and pertinent handouts for future reference
Cost: $275 per person
Space: limited to 10 attendees
Policies: should your plans change, a full refund will be issued prior to 12:00am Saturday, August 31. After 12:00am August 31st, no refunds will be issued, however you are welcome to transfer your spot. Please contact grappolowineschool@gmail.com with any questions.
Grappolo Wine School Statement: We promote the responsible use of alcohol, therefore everyone is provided a spitoon and encouraged to spit throughout the bootcamp (as professionals do) and arrange transportation should it be necessary.
Learning outcomes
Gain an in-depth understanding of worldly wine regions, varietals, and styles, including the factors influencing flavor profiles and quality.
Develop advanced tasting techniques, including the ability to identify aromas, flavors, and structural components in wine, and accurately describe them using proper terminology.
Enhance your ability to perform detailed sensory analysis, including the identification of wine faults and quality indicators.
Be better-prepared for relevant sommelier certification exams (WSET 1 or 2, CMS Intro, or CSW) through focused review and practice, including theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Learn to pair wines with various cuisines, understanding the principles of balancing flavors, textures, and components to enhance dining experiences.
Acquire the skills to provide exceptional wine service, including proper pouring techniques, glassware selection, and tips on how to navigate a wine list.
Understand the best practices for wine storage, including temperature control, humidity levels, and the optimal conditions for aging different types of wine.
Develop the ability to communicate wine-related information effectively, including wine descriptions, recommendations, and pairing suggestions.