Ingredients

Saugatuck Grain + Grape Launches Wine Education Class Series

Stephanie Webster April 02, 2015

Saugatuck Grain + Grape is going to be holding a series of wine education classes. Classes will be held every other week this spring. The series will cover everything from "Introduction to Wine Tasting, Lexicon, and Labels" to "The World Through Rosé Covered Glasses" as they dive into specific varietals. For those who don't know Mimi and her team, there will most definitely be fun, food and some bad wine jokes in every session.

Classes will be led by Mimi McLaughlin and Jon Carr, the newest member of the SG+G team. There will be nibbles prepared by Mark Hepperman, their in-house chef, so your tummy and taste buds will be happy in a multitude of ways.

Below is a break down of the syllabus, cost and dates. Please call the store to reserve your spot.

Syllabus

April 8, 2015

Introduction to Wine Tasting, Lexicon, and Labels:

In our introductory class, we will discuss the basics of wine tasting and incorporate the Systematic Approach to Tasting that is used by Wine professionals and Sommeliers. We will also attempt to de-mystify the “language” of wine and break down some of the barriers that sometimes understandably intimidate even the most experienced wine drinkers. Lastly, wine labels can teach us a tremendous amount about the wine we enjoy. We will help you to de-code these labels, and prepare you the next time you are buying wine in a retail or restaurant environment. We'll be tasting wines from Germany, Bordeaux, Burgundy, Italy, and Spain. Oh, and there WILL be bubbles!

April 15, 2015

The World Through Rosé Covered Glasses:

In our Rosé class, we will celebrate the arrival of Spring, and with it pink wine. Rosé has exploded in popularity over the past few years with its fresh, bright flavors that pair wonderfully with the spirit and cuisine of Spring and Summer. As Rosé has blossomed as a category, so too have the various style of Rosé. Cerasuolo from Italy and Tavel from France’s Rhone Valley are just two examples of Rose’s delicious versatility that we will explore together.

April 29, 2015

Pinot Noir: The Fickle Mistress:

Pinot Noir is a store favorite here at SG&G. If you browse our shelves, you will find a wide selection of Pinot from around the globe. Each offers a different take on the classic varietal. Pinot, more so than any other grape, takes on the unique terroir of its growing region. Despite both being Pinot Noir, Red Burgundy and Russian River Pinot are distinctly different wines. This class will explore these differences, and illustrate the great variety of Pinot Noir. This class is my personal favorite, and as such, you'll be drinking Pinot from all over the world, not just France and California. Not that I'm fickle or anything.

May 13, 2015

Patio Pounders: Beating up Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc:

Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, and Sauvignon Blanc. You’ve been there, done that and now it's time for something new. Everyday we see customers ready to expand their horizons and reach beyond the familiar. If this sounds enticing, this class is for you. Albarino, Gruner Veltliner, Arneis, Vinho Verde andPicpoul de Pinet are just a few wonderfully underappreciated white wines that are perfectly suited for the beach, park or patio. Crisp, clean and refreshing is the name of the game. We promise no real punches will be thrown.

May 27, 2015

BBQ Season Kickoff- All American Wine

Memorial Day is the official kick off to barbecue season. Burgers, ribs, and steaks all taste better on the grill. The smell of smoke fills the air. Summer is here and life is good. Now all you need is a glass of wine to pair with those bold flavors. Whether it’s a fresh, juicy red for the neighborhood block party or a cult Zinfandel to partner with that prime cut you’ve been eyeing at the butcher, we’ve got you covered. How about Semillon from Washington? Or The Rhone Rangers from California? And what BBQ would be complete without some good old American Cabernet Sauvignon. This class will sizzle. Ba dum bum.

June 10, 2015

Emerging Wine Regions:

The Wine World is a big place, and it continues to get bigger. As our appetite for wine has grown, so to have the number of places that produce wine. In the U.S. alone, Texas, Virginia, and North Carolina all have growing wine industries. Even Connecticut has a number of thriving wineries. This trend extends beyond our borders and has seen a number of new regions produce truly World Class wines. Regions like the Jura in France, Etna in Italy, Portugal, Austria and the Finger Lakes in NY will all be explored. Join us as we seek out the next great wine the world has to offer.