Grüner Veltliner and Merlot!
2020-10-29 19:00 - 21:00 (Europe/Berlin) | Zoom Online
The Austrian day of independence is on the 26th October, and International Merlot Day is on the 7th November – so let’s split the difference and celebrate these two sensational grape varieties together at the end of October – a kind of Hallowine!
The plan is that you buy yourselves a bottle (or half-bottle) of each. Here are my suggestions:
Grüner Veltliner
Although Grüner Veltliner is now being planted all over the world, I suggest that we all get a version from Austria – most of the bottles available in the shops come from Niederösterreich, which is probably the best region for what we’re looking for. It’s nearly always made in a still, dry style so I don’t think you can go wrong there. Try to get a bottle from 2015-2018.
GV works well with fresh or slightly acidic cheeses – try a goat’s cheese or a mature Cheddar.
Merlot
Nearly all wine that is 100% or majority Merlot is made in a still, dry, red style – so I guess we will all be getting one of those. The classic option is to get a Right Bank Bordeaux – especially from Saint-Émilion, Pomerol or slightly cheaper versions from nearby villages (Lussac Saint-Émilion, Lalande de Pomerol…), However you will be able to find examples from many regions including the Languedoc, Italy, California, and even Germany.
Merlot combines beautifully with pizza, charcuterie/salami and semi-hard cheeses such as Camembert or Chaumes (from Bordeaux).
Then join me on Zoom at the appointed time, and we will taste together. At the same time, I shall explain all about the history, techniques and geography of these grapes and their wines – as well as a bunch of fascinating stories and factoids. I will also share maps, diagrams and photos to help make everything clearer.
See you online!
Sean +49 151 71 72 1627
Learn the English of Wine using fun exercises, games and quizzes.
Checkout our varied and interesting tasting themes or choose your own to book a private party or team event for your employees.

Beaujolais Nouveau
2020-11-19 19:00 - 21:30 | Zoom Online
Beaujolais Nouveau will be released on Thursday 19th as planned, and no stupid virus is going to stop us tasting it!
Of course the REAL Beaujolais wines are much more interesting – with their unique fermentation method, mouth-watering flavours and extraordinary geographical location. So buy yourself a bottle of Nouveau, plus one of delicious, quality Beaujolais*, and log in so that we can learn all about this fascinating region and its unique wines. For the full experience, pick up an example of its close neighbour Burgundy Pinot Noir as well, so that we can compare and contrast. I will put suggestions in the comments. Half-bottles are often available too, of course.
*The quality Beaujolais are: Brouilly, Côtes de Brouilly, Morgon, Chenas, Juliénas, Fleurie, Régnié, Moulin à Vent, Chiroubles and St Amour.
As we taste we will look at the maps, diagrams and photos that help unlock the secrets of this gastronomically blessed but tragically under-rated wine region. I will also post food-pairing ideas.
Santé, Sean
With years of experience living in viticultural regions, importing and exporting wine, and running bars and wine shops, Sean has a lifetime of information, opinion and stories to share. Sean has been hosting wine tasting events for 15 years, which are beloved by the many regular participants. They focus on wine, beer and Cognac tastings, held around a theme such as country of origin, food pairing or finding more esoteric links with wine; for example mythology, art or veganism. Check out the tasting notes from the previous tasting for this region. Learn the English of Wine using fun exercises, games and quizzes.

Vegan Wine Tasting
2020-12-02 07:00 - 21:30
You probably know that most wine is not vegan – and you may have a few questions! Mine would be:
How can I tell if a wine is free of animal-derived products?
Does anyone have any great recommendations for vegan wine?
What about organic, natural, and bio-dynamic processes?
Which wines pair best with plant-based food?
As a wine expert and 30+ year vegetarian, I am well placed to answer these questions, and many, many more.
I will recommend 3 vegan wines which you can find in Berlin and elsewhere. You prepare your food, and join me online. We’ll taste, discuss and enjoy! At the same time I will answer the questions above, plus any others you may have. There will be photos, maps and diagrams to help explain things.
Cheers, Sean
0151 71 72 1627

Vegan wine recommendations:
If you are in Germany, Bio Company has a good selection of wine – all of it is organic, and much of it is vegan.
These bottles are available in Berlin:
Albet i Noya Curiós Xarel.lo (white)
Régis Boucabeille “Les Terrasses” (red, medium weight)
Domaine de Brau Syrah (red, heavy and fruity)
In general, look for a green “V” logo, or the words “suitable for vegans” (obviously…). Unfiltered red wines, and cloudy Ports etc. will always be vegan.
And remember – (almost) all sparkling wine, and spirits (eg brandy such as Cognac or Armagnac) are vegan.

Check out some of our other tasting themes and plan your own private event.

Champagne and Cava Tasting Online
2020-12-09 19:00 - 21:30 | Zoom Online
Sean’s Legendary Festive Bubbly Tasting!

Time for the world’s most festive tipple: joins us as we taste and discuss genuine AOC Champagne and Cava. As this year the tasting will be virtual I recommend you buy 2 half bottles (full bottles if you are feeling thirsty!)
– A classic Cava from Catalonia – for example Flama d’Or Brut
– A genuine Champagne, “brut nature” version (ie drier than usual)
As always I will employ photos, maps and diagrams to help explain everything about these delicious tipples. This is an amazing chance to really compare and contrast styles and flavours.
I’ll explain how they are all made, let you know what flavours you are supposed to be experiencing, and tell you a bunch of amazing stories about the geography and history of these fascinating regions. You’ll be able to access the tasting notes, maps and photos on your smartphones.
Along the way you’ll learn the crucial differences in these bottles and discover your preferences: Reims or Troyes? Majority Chardonnay or Pinot? Malo or not? Maison or Grower-Champage? Brut or zéro dosage? Oak or steel? Rosé saigné or assemblage? So many questions! So few liver cells…
You should set yourselves up with some accompanying food – my suggestions are:
– Salty snacks like crisps and nuts
– Seafood, e.g. smoked salmon or prawns
– Double or triple fat cheese, such as Brie or Brillat-Savarin respectively
– Salami or pâté
– Strawberries, fruit tarts or buttery biscuits
Cheers! Sean

Our previous bubbly tasting was a super event – we met in Tiergarten in Berlin.
With International Champagne Day just gone (Oct 25th) and Business Women’s Day just a couple of weeks ago, it’s a good time to reflect on the fascinating story of the “veuve” Champagne houses.

Taste Wine Like a Pro - Online!
2020-12-16 19:00 - 21:00 | Zoom Online
Our isolation tastings have been great fun; but let’s move it up a notch. Join us in Berlin and New York and around the world as we learn how to taste wine like a pro.
Grab your favourite bottle of white. Decant a delicious red. And dig around at the back of the cabinet for a ¼ bottle of brandy (or rum, whisky or whatever). Because we are going to learn a real life skill: how to sample, savour and summarise in a way that makes sense, helps you to catalogue your experiences – and impresses your peers.
I will supply the video clips, print-outs and other information to transform you from to dilettante to connoisseur.
By the end of the evening you will be considerably more knowledgeable regarding how to handle wine and how to taste wine like a pro!
Cheers! Sean

With years of experience living in viticultural regions, importing and exporting wine, and running bars and wine shops, Sean has a lifetime of information, opinion and stories to share.
You can read some of his unique articles on subjects like how to find great wines for cheaper prices and woman in the wine industry.
Sean runs occasional activities which are beloved by the many regular participants. They focus on wine, beer and Cognac tastings, held around a theme such as country of origin, food pairing or finding more esoteric links with wine; for example mythology, art or veganism.

Languedoc Art and Wine
2021-01-13 19:30 - 22:00 | Zoom Online
The fantastic duo of Languedoc Art and Wine!
The Languedoc region is famous for wine, and also the dozens of amazing artists that have basked and thrived in its wonderful light and colours. Through the combination of Languedoc art and wine discover the diversity of this innovative and sun-drenched area of southern France.

Let’s pick up three bottles of wine from this wonderful region – and I will tell you about the wines and the painters of this unique countryside, and show examples of the masterpieces by Derain, Cézanne, van Gogh and many others.

I’ll explain how they are all made, let you know what flavours you are supposed to be experiencing, and tell you a bunch of amazing stories about the geography and history of this ancient and gorgeous region. You’ll be able to access the tasting notes, maps and photos on your smartphones.

As a special treat, we will also hear from Languedoc artist Libby page. She will tell us what the area means to her and how it inspired her art.

2016-2020 “It was the vivid landscapes of Southern France in particular the majestic plane trees lining the Canal du Midi that drew me back to painting.
During my studies, the teachers in drawing and sculpture inspired me the most and I completed a BA in sculpture in London.
Life then took me down to the silvery light filled vineyards and tree lined roads where warm, strong light vibrates through everything and colours gain fullness and importance.
I would daydream how to mix that blue sky or distant purple mountains. Could I capture the warm smell of summer evenings or the rustle of the breeze in the plane trees with paint?
Sunshine has a capacity of melting away our troubles and lifting our spirits so I infuse my paintings with the hope-giving light and warmth that the South has shown to me.
I am delighted when I receive feedback from clients telling me that my work has helped them through a hard time or lifts their mood each day. This is exactly why I do what I do!”

Sipping these powerful wines, listening to a local artist and looking at the glorious images will be an antidote for the January blues!

German Beers N°1: The South
2021-01-20 19:30 - 22:00 | Zoom Online
Learning about German beers is the key to understanding ale in general.
What’s better than enjoying a beer with some good company? Learning about beer at the same time! We will have to do it by video, of course. Think of it as a Zoombeer class..
I have chosen four brews that are widely available in German supermarkets. Next month we will sample 4 more from the Northern half of the country.
We will taste them together, learning about the grain, yeast, hops and techniques that create the flavours. There are also some great stories to be told – concerning purity laws, bakers, monks, coffee-bans, unification and (of course) Oktoberfest.
You’ll finally fully understand IBU, ale, bottom fermentation, vegan brews, Lovibond/EBC, Gerstenmalz and the whole Weiß/Weizen/Wiesn/Weisse mess!

So please get a bottle of each of these beers below and prepare something to eat (I’ll be getting Allgäuer Käse) and sign up to this unique evening.
They usually cost around 1€ for 500ml – sometimes 330ml bottles are also available.
1) A Pils or Pilsner – for the sake of geography, you could get the Tannenzäpfle Rothaus example (but many others are available).
2) A Weißbier, Hefeweizen or Weizen – you can choose Kristal or Naturtrüb versions from breweries such as Erdinger, Franziskaner, Paulaner etc etc.
3) A Kellerbier, Zwick’l or Zoigl – brands such as Aktien, Mönchshof and Krombach are in most large shops.
4) A Münchener Helles – for example Augustiner, Spaten or the wonderfully-named Hacker-Pschorr.
*Most of these beers are also available in alcohol-free versions.
Cheers! Sean[masked]
If you are more about wine than beer sign up to our next event where you will learn all about the Languedoc area. We will be talking about the exquisite light and climate in this region which makes it special for both art and wine.

Bring Your Own Bottle Online Tasting!
2021-02-03 19:30 - 22:00 | Zoom Online
After Dry January, how about a Fluid February?
Join Faye (a Munich-based wine educator) and me for a Bring Your Own Wine online evening. Just pour yourself a glass of your favourite wine(s) and tune in to meet us and other members of the group. We will tell each other why we love the bottles that we have chosen (and maybe the food accompaniment too).
It’ll be a chance to have an informal chat and to pick up a bit of wine knowledge along the way.
A suggested plan could be: choose one white, rosé or sparkling wine to start, and then a red or fortified wine to follow. If you let us know which bottles you have sourced in advance (in the comments), we can compile a list for everybody’s edification.
This event is a free online tasting, so don’t hesitate to invite friends, family, colleagues and complete strangers!
Cheers, Sean
00 49 151 71 72 1627

South African Wines | Old World meets New
2021-02-17 19:30 - 22:00 | Zoom Online
A lot of us are have a very difficult time right now, but the wine region that is suffering the most is probably South Africa. Alcohol sales have been banned there until very recently, so Cape producers are in desperate trouble.
We can help a little by buying some of their wine. Not all heroes wear capes – some drink Cape! Luckily a lot of south African wines are delicious and great value.
So grab a bottle (or half-bottle) of South African white, and another of red, and log in so that we can enjoy, compare and contrast them together.
I will send you wine recommendations (look below), as well as food pairing ideas. The wines I have chosen come from Babylonstoren Winery and Diemersfontein Wine and Country Estate.
As we taste we will look at the maps, diagrams and photos that help unlock the secrets of this dramatic and history-laden wine region.
The cost for the organisation, hosting and slide show is just 10€.
Cheers, Sean
0151 71 72 1627
WINE
The iconic white wine of South Africa is a Chenin Blanc (Steen) varietal, but any blended wine with a healthy slug of CB in it would also be a good choice. Alternatives are Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay.
For red wines, Pinotage is a great option since it is hardly made anywhere else in the world. But Bordeaux-style blends. GSMs and varietals from Shiraz (Syrah) and Cabernet Sauvignon are successful too.
There are also rosés and Champagne-method sparklers (labelled as MCC), or you might even be able to source a fortified wine.

FOOD
South African whites generally pairs well with Asian food, and white meats. The more acidic ones will do a job with fish as well, of course, and cheese too. Chenin and Sauvignon are often drunk with goat’s cheese of course.
The reds can be fruity, dense and complex – ideal for red meats, sausages, game and pâtés. One recommendation for veggies is a chil(l)i sin carne.

South African wines feature in my blog on wine price cheats. I give you our insider tips on how to drink great wines for affordable prices.

Provence Art and Wine
2021-03-03 19:30 - 22:30 | Zoom Online
Join us for this wonderful event pairing Provence art and wine.
The beautiful weather, sensational flora, stunning landscape, and vibrant villages of the Provence region have given us some wonderful wines – and also a lot of gorgeous art.
So, find yourself up two or three bottles of wine from this spectacular region (see the comments for suggestions) – and I will tell you all about the wines and the painters, and show examples of the masterpieces by Chagall, Dufy, Gauguin, Cézanne, van Gogh and many others.
I will also post some suggestions for fantastic food pairings. For the wines I will choose a full-bodied unoaked white, a classic rosé and a Mourvèdre-based rich red!
You will not want to miss this stimulation of the senses. As well as the glorious paintings, I will share diagrams and photos that help bring the joie de vivre of provençale wines and artists out of the screen and into your weary hearts!
I am very much looking forward to sharing this experience with you all.
Santé, Sean

Learn the English of Wine using fun exercises, games and quizzes.
Checkout our varied and interesting tasting themes or choose your own to book a private party or team event for your employees.

Irish-Influenced Wine-Tasting!
2021-03-17 19:30 - 22:30 | Zoom Online
As consumers, traders, writers and migrant producers, the Irish have had an amazing influence on the world of wine. Let’s celebrate St Patrick’s day by tasting some fantastic examples of Irish invention.
Find yourself a bottle (or half-bottle) of:
* white (probably Chardonnay) from Australia’s Clare Valley
* red Bordeaux
* and maybe you have a drop of Cognac at the back of a kitchen cupboard?
We will also discuss the celtic connection in Porto, California, New Zealand the south of France, Burgundy, Sherry and elsewhere – including the invention of spirits! There will be photos, maps and diagrams to make everything clear.
I will post some suggestions depending on your location – and also a few food pairing possibilities.
Sláinte, Sean
With years of experience living in viticultural regions, importing and exporting wine, and running bars and wine shops, Sean has a lifetime of information, opinion and stories to share.
Sean has been hosting wine tasting events for 15 years, which are beloved by the many regular participants. While living in the Loire valley he started an Irish bar, where they put a great emphasis on stocking local wines. Sean has spent a lot of time in Ireland and will be combining his love for the country and it’s people with his passion and knowledge of wine.
“Sean was a great and entertaining host and his knowledge of wine lore is encyclopedic! A well spent evening.” Viktor
Learn the English of Wine using fun exercises, games and quizzes.
Checkout our varied and interesting tasting themes or choose your own to book a private party or team event for your employees.

Let's Stop and Smell the Rosé!
2021-05-05 19:30 - 21:30 | Zoom Online
Let’s pretend we’re having lovely spring sunshine and help ourselves to a glass or two of rosé. I will explain the 5 principal ways that pink wine is made, and delve a little into the science of the phenolics.
So buy yourself a couple of bottles and bring them to our online tasting. I will supply a bunch of maps, charts and diagrams to help us to understand better the wines that we are tasting – and we can compare colours and flavours together.
There will be a few tasting and food suggestions in the comments. Spoiler Alert: the best match for rosé wine is garlic…
I think you will be pleasantly surprised by the variety and complexity of this ultimate pink drink – as well as the great science and history behind it.
Join now with other wine lovers from Germany, France and elsewhere.
Cheers, Sean
0151 71 72 1627
Contact us if you would like to sign up, but prefer to pay by bank transfer.

Improve your English of the wine industry with this Quizlet study set. Learn hundreds of wine terms and phrases in a fun and engaging way. Designed by our wine professional.

Fantastic Atlantic Uruguayan Wines!
2021-05-26 19:30 - 21:30 | Zoom Online
Discover the Amazing Wines of Uruguay! Join our online tasting event where we will explore and enjoy some fascinating Uruguayan wines.
This is a great opportunity to taste some exclusive bottles from the only South American wine region with an Atlantic climate.
I have collaborated with the fantastic Atlantik Weine to present you with a special offer – a case of specially-selected wines at a healthy discount!
The idea is that you order the 6 bottles – 3 from Uruguay, and 3 from Argentina – and we hold 2 online tastings on consecutive Wednesday evenings.
As well as the sumptuous wines, we will get some unique insights from the wine-makers.
The Uruguayan line-up looks like this:
Km.0 Gran Reserva Viognier – from the unique microclimate of “the widest river in the world”
Bella Donna Marselan – a gorgeous expression of this newly-sexy grape variety
Ballena Premium Cuvée Tannat Merlot Cabernet Franc – a powerful and elegant blend from the South-East coast
The Argentinian bottles are:
Buenos Hermanos Torrontes – a bone-dry version of this great Argentinian cultivar, bursting with tropical fruit
Mairena Bonarda – better than Malbec! A fresh, lively and beautifully-balanced red
AI Cabernet Sauvignon – finely structured and bristling with berry flavours
The case of 6 bottles will be available to order here:
Atlantkik Weine
As usual, I will prepare loads of research and share maps, photos, and diagrams to help us to understand exactly what we are drinking. In the comments, we can all add suggestions of appropriate food to accompany the tasting.
Book now and enrich your wine experience!
Cheers, Sean

Check out some great reviews from our recent online wine tasting events!

Online Argentinian Wine Tasting
2021-06-09 19:30 - 21:30 | Zoom Online
Like Chile just over the mountains, Argentina has a wonderful selection of wine styles and grape varieties. The current obsession with Mendoza Malbec can mean that we miss some great discoveries.
If you are not in Berlin, you could find a couple of Argentinian bottles and join us – a Torrontès and a Malbec would be fine. If you can swap the Malbec for a Bonarda and/or a Cabernet Sauvignon – even better!
If you are in Berlin, I have collaborated with the fantastic Atlantik Weine to present you with a special offer – a case of specially-selected wines at a healthy discount! It contains three wines for this event, plus 3 wonderful bottles from Uruguay – for just 80€ postage included.
As well as the sumptuous wines, we will get some unique insights from the wine-makers.
The Argentinian bottles are:
Buenos Hermanos Torrontes – a bone-dry version of this great Argentinian cultivar, bursting with tropical fruit
Mairena Bonarda – better than Malbec! A fresh, lively and beautifully-balanced red
AI Cabernet Sauvignon – finely structured and bristling with berry flavours
The case of 6 bottles will be available at this address:
https://www.atlantikweine.de/weinshop/weinpakete/
As usual, I will prepare loads of research and share maps, photos, and diagrams to help us to understand exactly what we are drinking. In the comments, we can all add suggestions of appropriate food to accompany the tasting.

Check out some great reviews from our previous tastings!

Improve your English of the wine industry by practising these great wine study sets on the Quizlet learning platform.

Remarkable Rhône Valley Wine-Tasting
2021-07-08 18:30 - 20:30 | Viktoria Luise Platz, Viktoria Luise Platz, Berlin, 10777, Germany
I have a bunch of extremely interesting Rhône Valley wines to share with you for our first “in-person“ tasting!
We will sample some delicious Rhôdanian blends from Patricia Alexandre’s innovative Domaine des Peyre in the Southern Rhône as well as the lesser-known but super-prestigious Saint-Peray and Saint-Joseph from the north of the region.
The weather is likely to be warm, so we have whites and rosés as well as signature fruity reds.
The event takes place on a roof-top terrace! There is cover if it rains.
As usual we will learn all about the grape varieties – and there are some surprises in store – as well as the terroir and history of these sensational Rhône valley vineyards: we’ll be hearing about Greeks, Romans, Popes, Barons and the Rhône Rangers.
I have also selected some bread, sensational local Alpine cheese and charcuterie to pair with the wines. A lot of us will be vaccinated, so we should be a safe and happy gathering.
I really look forward to seeing you there! Sean
0151 71 72 1627

Check out our great reviews from previous events!
Read the wine notes on my blog to learn more about the tasting themes we have covered over many years.

Loire Valley Wine-Tasting
2021-08-12 18:30 - 20:30 | Viktoria Luise Platz, Viktoria Luise Platz, Berlin, 10777, Germany
The Loire Valley has some of the most fascinating wines, food and history anywhere in Europe. I lived right in the centre of this astonishing region for several years and still have a close connection to the area and its vintners.
It must be the only vignoble with world-class examples of all these wine styles: dry whites, sweet whites, sparkling wines, fresh reds, complex reds and rosés. We will taste one of each type – and 2 of the whites because it is illegal not to host a Loire tasting without both a Sauvignon Blanc and a Chenin Blanc.
The seven sensational bottles will be paired with the traditional cheeses and pâtés from the region. As usual we will learn all about the grape varieties as well as the terroir and history of these sensational vineyards: we’ll be hearing about kings, castles, giants, monks, donkeys, shellfish, Tintin and Leonardo da Vinci.
The event takes place on a roof-top terrace, with cover if it rains. Most of us will be vaccinated, so it should be a safe and happy gathering.
I really look forward to seeing you there!
Sean

Contact us if you would like to organise a private event for family, friends or colleagues.

Improve your English of the wine industry with these fun games and quizzes!

Portuguese Wine Tasting with English Cheese!
2021-09-02 19:00 - 21:00 | Viktoria Luise Platz, Viktoria Luise Platz, Berlin, 10777, Germany
Join us for our next informative and fun tasting, this time featuring Portuguese wine and English cheese.
Port and Stilton – the perfect combination of Douro wine and English cheese. But are there other great Anglo-Iberian combinations to be discovered?
The range and quality of Portuguese wine is legendary. Regions such as Alentejo, Dão and Bairrada offer amazing flavours and great value for money. Since I have just come back from Blighty with some Cheshire, Shropshire Red, Wensleydale and other delectable dairy produce, we can enjoy a Brexit-busting evening of wonderful wine and delicious cheese.
We will learn all about the unpronounceable grape varieties, stunning landscapes and fascinating history of Europe’s first protected wine regions.
The event takes place on a roof-top terrasse, with cover if it rains. Most of us will be vaccinated, so it should be a safe and happy gathering.
I really look forward to seeing you there! Sean
0151 71 72 1627

About your presenter:
With years of experience living in viticultural regions, importing and exporting wine, and running bars and wine shops, Sean has a lifetime of information, opinion and stories to share.
Sean has been hosting wine tasting events for 15 years, which are beloved by the many regular participants. They focus on wine, beer and Cognac tastings, held around a theme such as country of origin, food pairing or finding more esoteric links with wine; for example mythology, art or veganism.
Sean’s wine choices tend towards vegan and organic grower-wines, from small and independent wineries. Typically he likes to combine classics with little-known discoveries within the same tasting activity.

Check out some great reviews from our previous tastings!
Improve your English vocabulary of the wine industry using our fun games and quizzes on Quizlet.

Riesling and Pinot!
2021-10-06 19:00 - 21:30 | Viktoria Luise Platz, Viktoria Luise Platz, Berlin, 10777, Germany
Support the Ahr and compare worldwide Riesling and Pinot!
The Ahr valley suffered terrible losses during the recent floods. The vineyards – some of the best in Germany – were not spared. Let’s taste a couple of their signature wines – Riesling and Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir) and learn about this great region.
At the same time, we could try something very interesting: compare these varietals with Rieslings and Pinots from around the globe. I have examples from New Zealand, Luxembourg, France and Italy (list not exhaustive) – so we can see how climate, soil and culture affect the wine in the glass.
I will supply the maps and diagrams – as well as the bread, meats and cheese – to make sure that the evening is enjoyable and educational.
Please make sure that you are vaccinated, tested or recovered.
The venue is a beautiful airy apartment in Schöneberg – on the roof terrace weather permitting.

Prost! Sean
0151 71 72 1627

About our wine professional Sean:
With years of experience living in viticultural regions, importing and exporting wine, and running bars and wine shops, Sean has a lifetime of information, opinion and stories to share.
Sean has been hosting wine tasting events for 15 years, which are beloved by the many regular participants. They focus on wine, beer and Cognac tastings, held around a theme such as country of origin, food pairing or finding more esoteric links with wine; for example mythology, art or veganism.
Sean’s wine choices tend towards vegan and organic grower-wines, from small and independent wineries. Typically he likes to combine classics with little-known discoveries within the same tasting activity.

Check out our great reviews from previous events!

Improve your English of the wine industry with these fun and information wine vocabulary quizzes and games.

The Wines of Montpellier
2021-10-28 19:00 - 21:30 | Viktoria Luise Platz, Viktoria Luise Platz, Berlin, 10777, Germany
Wine tasting in Montpellier – contact us for details!
The Wines of Montpellier, Crossroads of the Midi
Situated in the north of the Languedoc, near the borders with the Rhône Valley and the Provence wine regions, Montpellier is an amazing city with an astonishing wine-making heritage.
The various climates and terroirs – salt-flats, lagoons, marshland, river valleys, pine forests, mountains, garrigue, coastal areas and dinosaur nesting colonies* – contribute to unique microclimates and biodiversity.
The wine history starts with the wisdom of Europe’s most ancient tribes and continues today with the innovation of our super-connected modern life – and encompasses all periods in-between.
Travelling regularly to this area, I have brought back a range of fascinating and delicious bottles – AOCs, IGTs and even a rogue Vin de France. These reds, whites and rosés tell the story of this spectacular crossroads in the Midi, with its Phonecian, Phocaean, North African, Greek, Roman, British and Antipodean influences.
I will also supply genuine tapenade from the region along with olives, and other typical Mediterranean pâtés!
This event, in an airy penthouse apartment in Schöneberg, will follow 3G protocol and costs just 30€ per head.
Santé ! Sean
* yep, really: Dinosaur Museum

About our wine professional Sean:
With years of experience living in viticultural regions, importing and exporting wine, and running bars and wine shops, Sean has a lifetime of information, opinion and stories to share.
Sean has been hosting wine tasting events for 15 years, which are beloved by the many regular participants. They focus on wine, beer and Cognac tastings, held around a theme such as country of origin, food pairing or finding more esoteric links with wine; for example mythology, art or veganism.
Sean’s wine choices tend towards vegan and organic grower-wines, from small and independent wineries. Typically he likes to combine classics with little-known discoveries within the same tasting activity.

Check out our great reviews from previous events!

Wine and Art Exhibition with artist Libby Page
2021-11-14 16:00 - 18:00 | Genslerstraße 13 · Berlin, 13055, Germany
The synergies of wine and art
This very special event will focus on the synergies between landscape art and wine, both vivid expressions of the four forces of earth, wind, fiery sunshine and water.
These two ever-linked art forms covert this elemental power into a fabulous spectrum of colour. Libby is famous for her interpretation of the Mediterranean light illuminating the trees, waterways and vines of the Languedoc. But her new work also reflects on German forest leaves and morning skies.
With wines from these same regions we can mimic the spectacular spectrum in glasses of blue-reds, straw-coloured whites, orange wines, rosés and amber Muscat.
So join us at Libby’s studio – in an exciting artists’ cooperative overlooking an old Stasi prison – as we enjoy the colours of the palette and the palate.
Sipping these powerful wines, listening to a professional artist and looking at the glorious images will be an antidote for the winter blues!

The tasting will start at 4pm, and there will be light snacks available.

About the artist:
2016-2020 “It was the vivid landscapes of Southern France in particular the majestic plane trees lining the Canal du Midi that drew me back to painting.
During my studies, the teachers in drawing and sculpture inspired me the most and I completed a BA in sculpture in London.
Life then took me down to the silvery light filled vineyards and tree lined roads where warm, strong light vibrates through everything and colours gain fullness and importance.
I would daydream how to mix that blue sky or distant purple mountains. Could I capture the warm smell of summer evenings or the rustle of the breeze in the plane trees with paint?
Sunshine has a capacity of melting away our troubles and lifting our spirits so I infuse my paintings with the hope-giving light and warmth that the South has shown to me.
I am delighted when I receive feedback from clients telling me that my work has helped them through a hard time or lifts their mood each day. This is exactly why I do what I do!”

About the wine professional:

With years of experience living in viticultural regions, importing and exporting wine, and running bars and wine shops, Sean has a lifetime of information, opinion and stories to share.
You can read some of his unique articles on subjects like how to find great wines for cheaper prices and woman in the wine industry.
Sean runs occasional activities which are beloved by the many regular participants. They focus on wine, beer and Cognac tastings, held around a theme such as country of origin, food pairing or finding more esoteric links with wine; for example mythology, art or veganism.

Check out the great tasting reviews from our wine tasting participants.

Please note: Masks required

COVID 19 vaccination required

Event will be indoors – it’s a 2G event.

A Stunning Tuscan Wine Tasting Starring Rigoloccio Wines
2021-11-25 19:00 - 22:00
Wine Tasting featuring Tuscan specials
Tuscan wine offers us so much to enjoy. Firstly, there are the delicious wines: fresh vibrant whites and exuberant, complex reds based on the “blood of Jupiter“ itself – Sangiovese.
Secondly, we have millennia of history, legends and intrigue. From the Etruscans, via the Romans, the renaissance and the introduction of the quality triangle system all the way to the great DOCG scandal of the 1970s!
I have a wonderful selection of 7 bottles that covers tradition and innovation, power and finesse. The line up includes Chianti, Brunello, Vino Nobile and the blockbuster Abundantia Supertuscan 2018 (4.4 on Vivino!).
Let’s taste them together at an excellent Italian restaurant in Mitte that offers both la cucina raffinata and good value dishes. The deal is that you commit to ordering at least a main course.
This will be a 3G event, and I’ll limit numbers so that we can stay a responsible distance from each other.

With years of experience living in viticultural regions, importing and exporting wine, and running bars and wine shops, Sean has a lifetime of information, opinion and stories to share.
You can read some of his unique articles on subjects like how to find great wines for cheaper prices and woman in the wine industry.
Sean runs occasional activities which are beloved by the many regular participants. They focus on wine, beer and Cognac tastings, held around a theme such as country of origin, food pairing or finding more esoteric links with wine; for example mythology, art or veganism.

Sean's Legendary Champagne Tasting
2021-12-10 19:30 - 22:30 | Viktoria Luise Platz, Viktoria Luise Platz, Berlin, 10777, Germany
Berlin Champagne Tasting
Our yearly champagne tasting has come around.

Join us in person once again for our famous festive bubbly tasting. 6 genuine AOC Champagnes – with a couple of real surprises – and a “French 75” cocktail to finish.
As usual, we will learn all about the fascinating history of this most iconic of drinks and the details of how it is made. The subtle differences in taste will amaze you.

I will employ photos, maps and diagrams to help explain everything about these delicious tipples. This is an amazing chance to really compare and contrast styles and flavours.
Along the way you’ll learn some crucial info and tips: How should you open the bottle? Who invented the traditional method? What’s the best way to keep sparkling wine? Brut / Zero / Sec…which “dosage” should you choose? Why is the cork that funny shape? When were the best vintages? Where do the best value Champagnes come from? All these questions and many more will be answered as we “taste the stars” (as Dom Perignon described it).
We will also enjoy delicious snacks chosen to complement the wines.
The event takes place in a penthouse in Schöneberg.

About your wine professional:
With years of experience living in viticultural regions, importing and exporting wine, and running bars and wine shops, Sean has a lifetime of information, opinion and stories to share.
Before the event you can learn more about the history of champagne by reading Sean’s blog on Women and Champagne
Sean runs regular tasting occasions which focus on wine, beer and Cognac tastings, held around a theme such as country of origin, food pairing or finding more esoteric links with wine; for example mythology, art or veganism.

Check out the great tasting reviews from our wine tasting participants.

Wine, Vermouth and Cava tasting weekend in Valencia
2024-09-27 20:30 - 2024-09-30 11:00 | Valencia, Valencia, Spain
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The world is just catching on to the fact that the DOs of Utiel-Requena, Manchuela, Valencia and Alicante make wines that are quite different to the usual “international” fare. The incredible terroir and fascinating history combine to give us delicious and striking blends and varietals which look like being the next “big thing”. Bobal dominates the reds, beautifully supported by Monastrell, Petit Verdot and Marselan, among others. There is a dizzying array of white cultivars such as Merseguera, Tardant and Malvasia which can be enjoyed as dominant varieties or in field blends.
On top of that, this area is known for its joyous aperitivo culture. Authorised to make Cava, it’s also the centre of the new vermouth movement that is sweeping Europe. Add to that its fun (and much stronger!) variations on sangría and mimosa and we have ourselves an aperitif masterclass.
To cap things off, we are talking about one of the world’s centres of fruit and vegetables, rice dishes and seafood. From breakfast specialities via local tapas, clams and other fresh produce, to its most famous inventions of paella and fideuà, the restaurants and markets will amaze you.

This long wekend in Valencia will introduce you to the up-and-coming wines from four local DOs, as well as three exciting Catalan specialities: aperitivos, Cava and vermouth. Additionally we will explore the gastronomic culture, history and beach of this wonderful city.

The city itself is a spectacular visit with an amazing cathedral stuffed with art and historical treasures, cool street cafés, a fabulous coastline and Europe’s longest park. This really is a fantastic opportunity to discover the barrios and sample their many delicious offerings.

The weekend starts on Friday evening with an overview of the drinks and gastronomy of the region, plus a tasting of some rarer bottles that are less likely to turn up in bars and restaurants. Over the next two days we will taste all of the major wine types from the four Dos, visit a winery and benefit from the winemaker’s expertise, eat paella and fideuà in a beautiful restaurant, dine by the sea, enjoy an aperitivo extravaganza, picnic on the beach and learn everything worth knowing about Cava and vermouth. There will still be enough free time for you to soak up the city’s atmosphere and sample its famous breakfast options.

SCHEDULE
Your Valencia wine weekend begins when you arrive on the Friday evening in a cool pavement wine bar in the Trinitat quartier.

Friday 27/09/2024

8:30pm
Metro Arago

Wine Tasting Restaurant
Our weekend in Valencia starts on Friday evening at a fantastic wine bar / restaurant in the cool El Pla del Real barrio, just North East of the old town, on the way to the sea. We will outline the foods, wines and aperitivos that make the city such a gastronomic delight, while sampling just a few of both.

Saturday 30/09/2024

Morning
Utiel-Requena

Vineyard Visit
On Saturday morning we will head out to the beautiful red-limestone Utiel-Requena hills to visit a stunnning vineyard with extraordinary design. I am sure that we have all visited wineries before, but this one is really unique. While tasking in the gorgeous view we will try a couple of Valencia’s special fortified wines, and some classic local cava.

5pm
Jardins del Real

City Tour
Saturday evening is in the form of a city walking tour, taking in all the key historical landmarks of the “ciutat vella”, as well as several tapas restaurants. We have located great examples of many of the key Valenciano dishes that you must try. Naturally, we will be taking in the whites, rosés and reds of the four key DOs: Utiel-Requena, Manchuela, Alicante and Valencia.

Sunday 01/10/2024

11am
Mercado Central

Guided Market Tour
Sunday: guided visit to the fabulous Central Market

12am
Del Turia Park

Wine Tasting Picnic
Sunday Lunch: with your purchases from the market we will make our way to Valencia’s wonderful Turia park for a wine tasting picnic.

7pm
Valencia Beach

Aperitivo on the Beach
Sunday evening: By the beautiful sandy, expansive beach we will enjoy some local aperitifs

8.30pm
Valencia Beach

Beachfront Restaurant
Sunday evening: Dinner in an elegant historic restaurant with sea views includes paella of your choice accompanied by reds and whites from this sunkissed region.

Check out some of the great reviews for Sean’s wine tasting events, including the previous weekends in the Languedoc and Loire Valley!
Total price for all events during the weekend is 490 euros. The full agenda will be published shortly but the number of events will be similiar to previous tours including 2 restaurants, 2 outdoor tastings, a city/market tour and a vineyard visit.

To book your place buy a ticket below which covers 30% of the full price of the weekend.
Options for hotels will be added shortly, or you can choose to find your own accomodation.

Wine Tasting Weekend in Champagne
2025-11-08 16:00 - 2025-11-11 11:00 | Reims, Reims, 51100, France
Note: The ticket price shown covers 30% of the total cost of the weekend.

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Tasting weekend in Champagne

It is our enormous pleasure to offer you all another weekend of wine discovery!
This November we will host a weekend in the famous town of Reims, Champagne. Guided by wine expert Sean, you will taste many AOC bubblies of various producers, styles, years and grape varieties – including a great selection from the Aube vineyards which are 70km from Reims, and therefore sometimes overlooked. What’s more, we’ll sample the rare still wines and digestifs from this magical kingdom of viniculture! Additionally we will take the opportunity to learn about some scandalously little-known northern Burgundy gems as we tour the Salon des Vignerons Independants, which takes place during our stay.
Along the way you will learn all about doseage levels, malolactic choice, lees time, cru status, grower Champagnes, autolysis, remuage, dégorgement, saignée rosés, bottle sizes, vin de réserve, marc, ratafia, liqueurs d’Expédition et de tirage, muselets, pupitres, guyot double etc and so on!

We start, as in prior events, with a wine tasting buffet. This allows us to try some of the more esoteric local classics that are less likely to be on offer at restaurants and winery visits. It also enables us to look at the terroir, geography, and history of the Champagne region, and enjoy some great food pairings.
The following evenings you will eat, and drink, at two of Reims’ best local bistros. To top off the weekend we will visit an independent vineyard, and of course continue the tasting.

Check out some of the great reviews for Sean’s previous wine tasting events.
To book your place buy a ticket below which covers 30% of the full price of the weekend. You can choose to book your own accommodation, or reserve a room in a shared house.

SCHEDULE
Your Champagne wine weekend begins Saturday evening in the famous French town of Reims.

Saturday 08/11/25

Afternoon
Reims Cathedral

Reims City Tour
Saturday: guided tour in the city of Reims, passing by the main historical attractions and enjoying a Champagne apéro along the way.

7.30pm
Reims town centre

Champagne Pairing Dinner
Saturday evening: sparkles and specialities – dinner in a local bistro with Champagne pairing for each course.

Sunday 09/11/25

Morning
Reims

Free time
Sunday morning: free time to roam the town centre and enjoy a chilled lunch.

2pm
Reims Parc Expo

Champagne and wine salon
Sunday afternoon: We’ll attend the famous “Independent Wineries’ Salon” and visit many of the 300+ stands, concentrating on bottles that can’t be easily sourced elsewhere, and that add to our understanding of the North East France wine scene.

7:00pm – 10:00pm
Town centre house

Champagne and other regional libations paired with local produce.
Sunday evening: a curated buffet, showing some wonderful food pairings including the region’s celebrated cheeses – while Sean lays the foundations of Champagne knowledge, that will help you to absorb and understand all the information from the weekend to come.

Monday 10/11/25

Afternoon
Vineyard Visit

Vineyard Visit
Monday afternoon: a vineyard visit to an independent Champagne producer (a rarity in the region), including a tasting session.

7.30pm
Reims Town Centre

Specialities from the North West
Monday evening: The focus for this meal is the sensational food-friendly but under-appreciated wines of Northern Burgundy. We conclude the entire decadent (but educational) weekend with some of Champagne’s famous digestifs.

PRICING
Choose the best option for you, whether you will be travelling as a couple, single, or prefer to book your own accommodation.

Excluding Lodging
Champagne Wine Weekend Tasting Events

Price per person to include all tasting events of the weekend. With this option you will find and book your own accommodation

Champagne tasting buffet
Transport to vineyard including guided tour and tasting
2 evening meals in local restaurants – 3 courses plus aperitif, digestif and champagne/wine to accompany each course
Guided tour around the salon of independent wine makers

490 Euros

Room in shared apartment
Champagne Wine Weekend Tasting events, including double room shared by 2 people for 3 nights.

Price per person based on 2 people sharing a double room. Includes all tasting events of the weekend. With this option you stay in a 4 bed/4 bath house/apartment in the town centre of Reims. We will be vetting the options before booking, so exact property not confirmed yet.

Champagne tasting buffet
Transport to vineyard including guided tour and tasting
2 evening meals in local restaurants – 3 courses plus aperitif, digestif and champagne/wine to accompany each course
Guided tour around the salon of independent wine makers

630 Euros

Shared apartment
Single Room
Champagne Wine Weekend Tasting events, including private double room for 1 person

Price per person for single occupancy of double room. Includes all tasting events of the weekend. With this option you stay in a 4 bed/4 bath house/apartment in the town centre of Reims. We will be vetting the options before booking, so exact property not confirmed yet.

Champagne tasting buffet
Transport to vineyard including guided tour and tasting
2 evening meals in local restaurants – 3 courses plus aperitif, digestif and champagne/wine to accompany each course
Guided tour around the salon of independent wine makers

740 Euros

REFUND POLICY: If you cancel within 2 weeks of the weekend (before the 25th of October) you will get a full refund
If you cancel within 1 week of the event you will get your money back, less the deposit, which will be held over for your next booking.

Travel suggestions – Reims has a train station with main line trains to all major towns and cities. The nearest airports are Paris and Brussels. You can take the train from Paris CDG or Brussels, with a change at Champagne-Ardenne. Paris CDG is only one hour by train, Brussels is 3 hours.
If you choose to drive, it’s a great opportunity to stock up on Champagne for the holidays!! Let us know if you are happy to take other people in the car, and share expenses.
