Set sail on a global tasting with Vines by the Sea: A Coastal Wine Journey. Explore wines shaped by ocean breezes and maritime climates—from Portugal to Greece, California to New Zealand. Discover how proximity to the sea influences freshness, minerality, and style. Includes a guided tasting of six coastal wines.
Explore the bold, high-altitude wines of Chile and Argentina in Extreme Terroirs. From the Andes to remote valleys, discover how elevation, sunlight, and rocky soils shape intense flavors and vibrant structure. Taste six wines that showcase the dramatic landscapes and unique conditions behind South America’s most thrilling wine regions.
Explore the Southern Rhône beyond Châteauneuf-du-Pape in this class highlighting hidden gems from Gigondas, Vacqueyras, Lirac, and more. Discover rich, expressive reds and vibrant whites that showcase the region’s diversity, terroir, and tradition. Includes a guided tasting of six wines from some of the Rhône’s most underrated appellations.
Bought to you by Capital Wine School of Washington DC
$950.00 – 3 day course with wine samples
Includes all WSET study materials, 3 full-day sessions guided by a credentialed Capital Wine School instructor, wine tasting samples, the final exam, and a digital certificate and badge for those who pass the exam.
This class will meet in person at Echelon Wine Bar in Richmond, Virginia October 3, 4 & 5, 2025. Participants who register on or before September 17 will be eligible to take a paper-based exam at the end of class on October 5 *or* an online exam with remote invigilation on Saturday, October 18 at 10:00am. Participants who register on or after September 18 must take the exam online with remote invigilation on October 18 at 10:00am.
Schedule
Friday, October 3 : Class meets from 9:00am – 4:00pm with a short break for lunch
Saturday, October 4: Class meets from 9:00am – 4:00pm with a short break for lunch
Sunday, October 5: Class meets from 9:00am – 3:00pm with a short break for lunch, followed by a one hour exam from 3:00pm – 4:00pm for attendees who register on or before September 17 and who wish to take the paper-based exam at the end of the last class session.
Saturday, October 18: 10:00am online, remotely invigilated exam for attendees who registered on or after September 18, or pre-September 18 registrants who wish to take the exam online.
*The cost of lunch is not included in the registration fee. Participants may bring their own lunch or visit one of the local eateries.
The aim of the course is to focus on the key grape varieties and regions of the world. It also covers factors affecting wine quality and style, grape growing, and basic winemaking practices. The course emphasizes tasting assessment and the skills required to describe the aromas and tastes of wine. It helps to develop fundamental tasting and assessment skills.
Students will taste 8-9 wines during each class session.
The exam takes 1 hour and consists of 50 multiple choice questions. Those who pass the exam receive the WSET Level 2 Award in Wines, an internationally recognized credential in the wine industry.
17 Guided Learning Hours (including one hour for the examination) and 11 hours’ private study.
To ensure a quality experience for all participants, each class or course requires a minimum number of registrations. If this minimum is not met, we may need to cancel the session. In such cases, registered students will be notified as soon as possible and provided with options for rescheduling or a full refund.
By purchasing your ticket(s), you agree to our payment, refund, cancellation, and reschedule policy.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
Please note: This will take you to the Capital Wine School for registration
Explore Oregon’s premier wine region: Willamette Valley. This class dives into the valley’s signature grape—Pinot Noir—alongside standout whites like Pinot Gris and Chardonnay. Discover how cool-climate terroir shapes elegant, expressive wines. Includes a guided tasting of six wines from top producers in the Willamette Valley.
Discover the depth and diversity of Virginia wine in Rooted in the Commonwealth. This class explores local expressions of classic varietals and unique blends that reflect the region’s terroir, history, and innovation. Taste six wines that showcase why Virginia is gaining national recognition as a rising star in American wine.
Discover the classic rivalry of Bordeaux in Battle of the Banks: Right vs. Left. Compare Merlot-driven wines from the Right Bank with Cabernet Sauvignon-based blends from the Left. Learn how soil, grape varieties, and tradition shape style and structure. Includes a guided tasting of six wines.
Explore the elegant, expressive wines of Germany and France’s Alsace region—two neighbors with shared grapes but distinct styles. From crisp Rieslings to aromatic Gewürztraminer and beyond, taste how geography, history, and tradition influence balance and character. This class includes a guided tasting of six wines.
Experience the ultimate sparkling showdown as Italy’s elegant Franciacorta goes glass-to-glass with France’s iconic Champagne. This class explores the traditional method behind both wines, highlighting regional differences, grape blends, and aging styles that create their signature bubbles. Taste six sparkling wines.
Go beyond Barolo and explore the hidden gems of Italy’s Piedmont region. Taste expressive wines made from Barbera, Nebbiolo, Dolcetto, Arneis, and Moscato. From crisp whites to bold reds and aromatic sparklers, discover Piedmont’s rich diversity beyond its most famous bottle. Includes a tasting of six wines.
Travel below the equator and discover bold, expressive wines from the Southern Hemisphere. This class features standout selections from Argentina, Chile, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand—each offering powerful flavor, vibrant character, and regional flair. Includes a guided tasting of six wines that showcase the southern side of the wine world.
Discover the diverse and dynamic wines of Portugal, from the crisp, refreshing whites of Vinho Verde to the rich, robust reds of Alentejo. This class explores native grapes, regional traditions, and modern expressions that make Portuguese wine so exciting. Includes a guided tasting of six distinctive Portuguese wines.
Indulge your senses in Palate Play, a guided tasting of six wines paired with artisan cheeses and decadent chocolates. Discover perfect matches like sparkling wine with triple crème, Malbec with Pecorino, and Shiraz with dark chocolate. A playful and delicious journey through texture, flavor, and harmony in every bite and sip.
Explore the many expressions of Sangiovese, Italy’s most iconic red grape. From the bright, savory wines of Chianti to the bold, age-worthy depths of Brunello di Montalcino, this class showcases how region, tradition, and terroir shape this versatile varietal. Includes a guided tasting of six distinctive Sangiovese-based wines.
Take a coast-to-coast journey through America’s top Cabernet Sauvignon regions. From the power of Napa Valley to the elegance of Washington State and hidden gems in between, discover how climate, soil, and style shape this iconic grape. Includes a guided tasting of six distinctive Cabernets.
Journey through the sun-drenched vineyards of the Mediterranean, where coastal breezes and vibrant culture shape fresh, expressive wines. Explore selections from Spain, Italy, Greece, France, and beyond in this class celebrating seaside terroir and timeless tradition. Includes a tasting of six wines that capture the warmth of the Mediterranean.
Rosé isn’t just one shade of pink. From pale and crisp to bold and structured, this class explores the wide world of rosé styles. Taste six distinct wines and learn how grape variety, region, and winemaking technique shape flavor, color, and character. A perfect class for pink wine lovers!
Explore two of Bordeaux’s most prestigious Right Bank appellations in this side-by-side tasting of Saint-Émilion and Pomerol. Compare Merlot-driven blends, discover subtle stylistic differences, and learn what makes these regions royal in reputation and character. Includes a guided tasting of six wines showcasing Right Bank elegance and power.
Raise a glass to National Prosecco Week with a fun, bubbly celebration of Italy’s most beloved sparkler. Explore the refreshing styles, regional nuances, and winemaking traditions that make Prosecco a global favorite. Perfect for sparkling wine lovers and festive sippers alike. This class includes a tasting of six Proseccos.
Discover the radiant charm of three sun-loving white Rhône varietals in this golden-hour-inspired tasting. Explore the floral, rich, and textured profiles of Marsanne, Roussanne, and Viognier, and learn how they shine solo or in blends. A perfect class for fans of full-bodied whites with character. This class includes a tasting of six wines.
Uncover the bold rivalry between two of Spain’s most iconic wine regions in Ribera del Duero vs Rioja: Tempranillo Titans. This tasting class explores how climate, aging, and tradition shape the distinct styles of Tempranillo from these neighboring regions. From Rioja’s elegance and oak influence to Ribera’s power and depth, you’ll learn what sets them apart—and which reigns supreme on your palate. This class includes a tasting of six wines.
Dive into the heart of California wine country with California Showdown: Napa Valley vs Sonoma. This engaging class pits two legendary regions against each other, exploring the bold, structured wines of Napa and the elegant, expressive styles of Sonoma. Learn how climate, terroir, and winemaking traditions shape their unique profiles—and decide which region captures your palate. This class includes a tasting of six wines.
The world of wine is diverse and delightful and sparkling wines certainly add a dash of pizzazz to your glass. From luxurious Champagne to casual sippers like Prosecco, let's embark on a journey to explore this effervescent world of bubbles. Expand your breadth of bubbles into the world of Spanish Cava, French Crémant, Austrian Sekt and beyond. Tasting of six (6) sparkling wines.
Saint-Emilion and Pomerol are the two great names associated with the Right Bank. Saint-Emilion itself is the driving force in terms of volume and accounts for some 40 percent of all wines produced on the Right Bank. Pomerol, in contrast, is smaller in size and producing impressive opulent wines, full of dark and spicy fruit, generally supple and more approachable than many of the other top wines in Bordeaux. Tasting includes six wines.
As it is frequently noted, Italians have a firm sense of identity that is rooted in their home province, and wine — often made with indigenous grapes that express a local character. Let us share these wines with you revealing the complexity of Italy's history and love of wine. Tasting includes 6 wines.
Click Here to Reserve - $35 per person | $30 per club member
Mendoza is a large province (nearly the size of Illinois) located in central-western Argentina. The massive Andes Mountains create a dramatic skyline in the west and also play an important role in Mendoza's wines.
The Andes act as a rain shadow, stopping wet Pacific Ocean weather from the Argentine highlands. It makes Argentina one of the sunniest and driest wine-growing regions with less than 9 inches of rain per year. (As dry as the Gobi Desert!)
Fortunately, ample snowmelt from the Andes irrigates the vineyards, making it possible to produce wine. Explore specific regions in Mendoza including Maipú Luján de Cuyo, Uco Valley and San Rafael. Tasting of six wines.
Click Here for Reserve: $35 per person | $30 per club member
Cava, Champagne and Prosecco are three names that are widely known internationally, especially when we talk about parties and celebrations, and also about the history and culture of wine. Today we propose a bubbly journey to find out the similarities and differences between these sparkling wines, and to understand and appreciate their unique characteristics. Tasting of six (6) sparkling wines.
Pinot Noir is a versatile grape grown all over the world. It is a fun varietal to explore because it is so influenced by the terroir or rather the dirt and the micro-climate of the vineyard. Explore a tasting of 6 Pinot Noirs from around the world.
If there is French wine that everyone deserves to taste, it’s probably Châteauneuf-du-Pape. It’s like the gateway drug to French wine. Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a French wine appellation known for its bold Grenache-based red blends. Officially, the region makes both red and white wines with up to 13 different grapes. (Unofficially, there are 20 varieties used in the region!). Let’s dig into the details of this historic wine and find out why Châteauneuf-du-Pape is the Southern Rhône’s most exclusive appellation. Tasting includes six wines.
A perfect tasting to get you started in the world of wine. A fun approachable introduction to topics like how to properly taste & assess wine, introduction to six noble grape varietals along with an overview of wine regions around the world. Course includes a tasting of six wines.
Join us for an adventurous, fun, interactive evening of wine trivia and tastings. For wine lovers and connoisseurs alike, come test your wine knowledge and palate for a fun tasting challenge! Tasting of six (6) wines.
There is a Spanish wine for every drinker. From the rolling hills of Rioja up to the high plains of Ribera del Duero, down to the coastal estuaries of Rías Baixas in Galicia, the Basque Country, the island of Mallorca and beyond, Spain offers something for every palate. Tasting includes six (6) wines.
California may be the most famous wine-growing state in the USA, but the entire West Coast produces wines of world-class quality. We would like to introduce you to the styles of the Pacific Northwest — specifically, Oregon and Washington. Tasting includes six (6) wines.
Champagne is the most famous region in the world known for its magical bubbles. Champagne, like all wines, is an experience for all of the senses – color, aroma, texture, flavor and in this case sound too. Learning to recognize and define the distinctions in Champagne is what makes tasting Champagne especially fascinating. Tasting of six Champagnes from France.
Join us for our monthly Sip & Savor Social. Enjoy a tasting of 10 wines for $10. Chef will have a special brunch menu to order from to enjoy. Make a reservation for 11am, 12pm or 1pm and stop anytime during your time slot to taste the 10 wines hand selected by our Wine Director. Interested in enjoying the special brunch menu please be sure to make a separate reservation for a table during this time.
Please note: This is a walk around tasting. Wines will be available for purchase and by-the-glass at special pricing for this event only. Please make a separate reservation if you would like to dine with us at a table. Seating is limited. Bar seating is available on first-come first-serve basis.
