Wine Spectator School Goes Down Under With New Course on Australia and New Zealand

Class offers tutored tastings and study materials on New World hot spots.

Posted: June 2, 2004

Australia is now the No. 2 exporter of wine to the United States, and its neighbor, New Zealand, continues to garner kudos for crisp Sauvignon Blanc and elegant Pinot Noir. But how much do you really know about these faraway wine regions?

The Wines of Australia & New Zealand is the newest seminar course from Wine Spectator School, the online education program launched by Wine Spectator in 2002. It is the third offering in a series of intermediate-level seminars that teach consumers and members of the wine trade about specific wine topics. The other two seminars focus on California Cabernet and the wines of Tuscany; a seminar on Bordeaux will be offered later this summer.

Under the guidance of Wine Spectator's director of education, Gloria Maroti, the $49 Australia & New Zealand course explores the history and innovative winemaking techniques of these New World regions.

Through a series of three tutored tastings -- which can be shared with family and friends -- the course teaches the skills necessary to identify and distinguish between the countries' popular varietals and styles of wine. Online quizzes, study guides, video clips and interviews with leading winemakers provide background information and help guide students through the ins and outs of wine Down Under.

Class materials -- including worksheets and tasting mats -- can be downloaded and printed; a professor will be available to answer questions via e-mail. Certificates are granted upon successful completion of the final exam.

Wine Spectator School currently offers two other courses for consumers. The ABCs of Wine Tasting, $39, is for beginners who want to learn the basics and get more enjoyment out of wine dinners, trips to wine country or simply dining at home. The intermediate-level Understanding Wine, $195, is an extensive survey course that lays the foundation for a lifetime of wine appreciation.

Two courses designed specifically for the wine trade are also available: ABCs of Wine Sales and Service, $75, and Understanding Professional Wine Sales and Service, $245.

For more information, visit www.winespectatorschool.com or e-mail questions to winespectatorschool@mshanken.com.