Low/Non-Alcoholic Wines & Wine Alternatives of the World (Blind Tasting)

Explore the rapidly expanding world of low and non-alcoholic wines and wine alternatives in an engaging global tasting experience that examines climate considerations, production processes, flavor development, and contemporary wine culture.

Join us for an interactive, palate-expanding tasting adventure across the globe without any alcohol buzz. In this carefully curated session, we investigate the fast-growing category of low and non-alcoholic wines and wine alternatives, discovering how they are produced, what makes them distinctive, and how to incorporate them into your everyday dining.

Our Master Sommelier will guide you through understanding why this beverage category has gained such momentum, examine the detailed production processes behind these drinks, demonstrate how production techniques shape flavor, aroma, and overall structure, and teach you how to assess them using industry-standard tasting methodology and coordinate them with food selections.

We begin by establishing a clear and practical understanding of what the term "non-alcoholic wine" truly encompasses. Numerous non-alcoholic wines start as conventionally fermented wines before undergoing specialized techniques to decrease or eliminate alcohol content while attempting to retain aromatic qualities, flavor complexity, and structural integrity. What influence does this process have on the final taste profile?

Throughout this class, you will:

• Sample an international selection of meticulously chosen low and no-alcohol wines and wine alternatives
• Understand the expertise required in this category, including how diverse production approaches affect body, bouquet, and equilibrium
• Distinguish reality from misconception, addressing frequent misunderstandings about these beverages and their characteristics
• Develop your tasting proficiency by assessing acidity, mouthfeel, aromatic compounds, and aftertaste, applying the identical methodology as conventional wine tasting

Whether you are investigating alternatives for health or lifestyle motivations, intrigued by emerging beverage trends, or simply enjoy exploring innovative possibilities in your glass, this educational experience will expand your sensory appreciation and enhance your knowledge of quality beverages.

No background in wine is necessary; simply bring your curiosity and your palate!

This class provides significant value for wine enthusiasts and is particularly beneficial for wine industry specialists. Your registration fee includes a blind tasting of six different beverages.

Online Participation Details

• You will receive your Zoom connection link and any necessary materials several days prior to the session via email. Be sure to check your spam folder, and if you haven't received communications within one business day of your class, please contact [email protected]
• If a wine tasting kit is available, it may be collected from the San Francisco Wine School or shipped anywhere within the United States
• For participants in locations where physical kits cannot be delivered, wine specification lists are provided. Review pickup and delivery details here.
• Participants who prefer to join the online session without participating in wine tastings can opt to select "Skip the Wine" during registration
• Your kit will include wine identification lists and detailed instructions for participation