Sharpen Your Palate by Attending our Wine Education Seminars.Seating is limited and available on a first come, first serve basis. The seminars are a part of your admission fee. Please note that wines may change prior to the festival for a variety of reasons. See the event staff in the seminar tent at the start of each session for the latest listing.

Seminar Schedule

12:30-1:15pm - Wine Tasting 101
Drinking wine is easy but tasting wine fully is a bit more complex.  We will show you the tasting method used by wine professionals to further your enjoyment of fine wine.  Whether it be a "blind tasting" or just a group of friends enjoying some bottles, you will have a better understanding of what to look for and how to describe the wines you taste.

1:30-2:15pm - Varietals 101
Did you know that there are over 4000 grapes used in the production of wine worldwide?  In this seminar, we will discuss the nine "classic" varietals that are grown internationally, as well as, some other varietals you should know about to have more fun.

2:30-3:15pm - Terroir
California, Oregon, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Australia, South Africa...Terroir! This fancy french term looks complex, however, it is quite simple.  Join us to discuss how the place where a wine is grown affects its flavor.  Learn how the "elements" influence your favorite wines and gain an understanding of a "sense of place".

3:30-4:15pm -
New World Wine vs Old World Wine
In this seminar, we will discuss the differences of styles of wine and how they relate to the people making them.  Maybe you've been to Italy, or maybe California and love their wines.  Learn why they taste the way they do and how food and culture have influenced their style.  Come check out this classic rivalry of the New World vs the Old World and learn when to enjoy each

4:30-5:15pm- Virginia Wine Seminar

Our Wine Education Seminars are coordinated by Sommelier Ian Honaker of Let's Talk Wine in Chesapeake
No Pets  |  ID is required for Wine Sampler Wristband  |  Event held Rain or Shine