1.World History of Wine: This would cover the origins of wine production, likely starting with ancient civilizations such as the Mesopotamians, Egyptians, and Greeks. It would then explore how wine spread throughout Europe and eventually to the New World, with regions like France, Italy, Spain, and California playing significant roles.
2.Wine History in the USA: This part would delve into the history of wine in the United States, from the early days of European colonization to Prohibition and its aftermath. It would also highlight key wine regions in the US, such as Napa Valley, Sonoma, Oregon, and Washington State.
3.Wine History in Texas and the Rio Grande Valley (RGV): Focusing more locally, this section would explore the development of the wine industry in Texas, including the challenges and successes specific to the state. It would also discuss the unique characteristics of the Rio Grande Valley as a wine-producing region.
4.Viticulture and Enology: This segment would cover the cultivation of grapes, including the selection of grape varieties, vineyard management practices, and the influence of terroir on wine quality. Enology, on the other hand, would focus on the science and art of winemaking, including fermentation, aging, and blending.
5.Wine Tasting and Pairing: Participants would learn the fundamentals of wine tasting, including how to evaluate appearance, aroma, flavor, mouthfeel, and finish. They would also explore the principles of food and wine pairing, considering factors such as acidity, sweetness, and tannins.
6.How to Taste Wine: This would involve practical exercises in wine tasting, teaching participants how to use their senses to assess the characteristics of different wines systematically.
Five Characteristics of Wine Tasting: These characteristics typically include:
Appearance: Color and clarity of the wine.
Aroma: The smell of the wine, which can encompass various scents like fruits, flowers, spices, and oak.
Flavor: The taste of the wine, including elements such as sweetness, acidity, bitterness, and any specific flavor notes.
Mouthfeel: The texture and body of the wine, which can range from light and crisp to full-bodied and velvety.
Finish: The aftertaste or lingering impression left by the wine after swallowing.