Weeks 1–3 · The framework
Look, smell, taste, conclude, in order.
The programs, in detail
Four programs of 6 to 12 weeks, tasted in pairs on a sensible budget.
Program 01 · Structure, not adjectives
The tasting method
We taste in pairs, because differences are far easier to perceive than absolutes. You'll learn to separate acidity from tannin, judge body and sweetness honestly, and build vocabulary that describes rather than performs. Spitting is normal and encouraged throughout.
Weeks 4–6 · Components
Acidity, tannin, sweetness, alcohol, body.
Weeks 7–8 · Aromas
Naming what you smell without straining.
Weeks 9–10 · Blind pairs
Comparing, guessing, then checking.
Weeks 1–3 · Whites
The main grapes and their styles.
Weeks 4–6 · Reds
Structure, climate and ripeness.
Weeks 7–9 · Regions
Old world, new world and what the names mean.
Weeks 10–12 · Labels
Reading any bottle with reasonable expectations.
Program 02 · Why labels differ
Grapes & regions
Label confusion is mostly a naming convention. We work through the major grapes and the regions that define their styles, how climate changes a wine, and how to read a label from anywhere well enough to predict roughly what's inside.
Program 03 · Spend well, not more
Buying & storing
We cover where value hides — less fashionable regions, second labels, good importers — how much a vintage actually matters, and practical storage in an apartment. We sell nothing and take no commission, so recommendations aren't steering you anywhere.
Weeks 1–2 · Value
Where good wine hides below thirty dollars.
Weeks 3–4 · Vintages
When they matter, and when it's marketing.
Weeks 5–6 · Storage
Temperature, light and horizontal bottles.
Weeks 7–8 · Building a rack
A dozen bottles worth having in.
Weeks 1–2 · Principles
Weight, acidity, salt and sweetness.
Weeks 3–4 · Hard cases
Spice, artichokes, eggs and chocolate.
Weeks 5–6 · Hosting
Running a blind tasting for six people.
Program 04 · Without the ceremony
Pairing & hosting
Pairing is simpler than it's made to sound: match weight, use acidity against fat and salt, and be careful with heat and sweetness. We also cover hosting a blind tasting at home, which is the most fun anyone has with this subject.
Want to taste with more than guesswork?
Twenty minutes on what you drink and where to start. Free, and 21+.