WHAT'S IN THE ACADEMY?

In this lesson, Helena will crush your dreams of mastering a wine list in one go—because, let’s be honest, that comes after you’ve mastered the basics, and there’s work to do before you get there.

But here’s the good news: this lesson gives you a foolproof framework for tackling any wine list. Knowing this upfront means you can keep it in mind as you learn the fundamentals, building the skills you need to order with confidence and flair by the time you’re done with the Academy.

Helena will introduce you to the world of red wine grapes, guiding you through each of the main varieties. You'll embark on a classic Sipa Safari, where she’ll reveal how the same grape can express unique flavours from different regions around the globe:

• Pinot Noir
• Cabernet Sauvignon
• Merlot
• Syrah / Shiraz
• Malbec
• Tempranillo
• Sangiovese
• Cabernet Franc
• Grenache / Garnacha
• Primitivo / Zinfandel
• Nebbiolo
• Gamay
• Carignan
• Pinotage
• Touriga Nacional

Put what you've learned into practice. 

In this lesson you'll learn how to start speaking wine language. 

Find out which fine wine was once described by Helena as: "It’s thin, dead leaves, manure. In a good way."

Feel free to bust out the smoking jacket at this point as Helena takes you through the world of sweet and fortified wines:

• Overview of Styles
• Port
• Sauternes
• Tokaji
• Madeira
• Sherry
• Ice Wine
• Moscato

In this section, Helena tackles the questions she’s been asked time and again during her 25 years of tastings and lessons in the trade. If you’ve ever wondered about these burning queries, the Academy is exactly where you’ll find the answers!

1. What are tannins in wine?

2. What does corked wine mean and how does it taste?

3. What are wine 'legs' and what do they indicate?

4. Why do waiters ask you to taste wine before serving?

5. How long can you store an open bottle of wine?

6. What is a 'vintage' wine and is it important?

7. Are corks better than screw caps for wine bottles?

8. Why aren't all wines considered vegan-friendly?

9. What do 'old world' and 'new world' wines refer to?

10. What is terroir and why is it important (and how do you pronounce it like a pro)?

11. Should you decant all types of wine?

12. How long should you age wine before drinking it?

13. What are sulfites in wine and are they harmful?

14. Why does red wine cause headaches for some people?

15. What is orange wine and how is it made?

16.What is pét nat wine and why is it popular?

17. What defines a 'natural' wine?

18. Why does my wine taste like vinegar?

19. What does it mean when a wine is oxidised?

20. What is the difference between organic and biodynamic wine?

21. Why does wine trigger asthma symptoms?