The Great Wine Regions Series – Part 10: California

Led by Radu Vasile, our in-house wine educator, this masterclass explores the regions, grapes and styles that shaped California’s global reputation. Expect clear explanations, practical comparisons and plenty of “aha” moments as we uncover how sunshine, Pacific influence and modern winemaking techniques combine to create some of the world’s most recognisable wines.

This structured three-hour session blends guided tasting with deep-dive learning into California’s key wine regions and styles. You’ll explore how coastal fog, mountain ranges, and diurnal temperature shifts influence ripeness and balance, while comparing the differences between regions such as Napa Valley, Sonoma, Central Coast, and beyond.

With Radu’s guidance, you’ll refine your tasting technique, learning how to assess fruit ripeness, oak integration, alcohol balance, texture, and freshness in a New World context. To bring the regions to life, we’ll enjoy Californian-inspired nibbles alongside the wines.

Taste 8 wines showcasing California’s most important styles and regions. Understand the role of climate, Pacific cooling, and topography in shaping Californian wine. Compare Napa Valley power vs Sonoma and coastal elegance. Explore California’s benchmark grape varieties, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Zinfandel. Learn how oak, ripeness, and winemaking choices influence texture, concentration, and ageing potential. Discover how California evolved from the “Judgement of Paris” to today’s more balanced and site-driven styles. Develop tasting skills focusing on fruit profile, structure, oak integration, and freshness. Enjoy regional nibbles designed to complement the wines. End with a fun, informal quiz – the winner takes home a bottle of wine!