Walter's Wine Classes

SUMMER 2026 Classes

No. 32: July 20th -- Loire Valley

Join Chris for a tour of France's Loire Valley, one of the country's most diverse and fascinating wine regions. Stretching from the Atlantic coast deep into the French countryside, the Loire is home to everything from crisp Muscadet and expressive Chenin Blanc to age-worthy Cabernet Franc, quirky native varieties like Grolleau and Pineau d'Aunis, and the iconic Sauvignon Blancs of Sancerre. Along the way, we'll explore the grapes, regions, and styles that have made the Loire a favorite among sommeliers and wine lovers alike.

No. 33: August 17 -- Identity Crisis

A Look at How Wine Regions Outgrow Their Original Identities

Most wine regions are known for a handful of signature grapes—but it wasn't always that way. Washington, for example, built much of its early reputation on Riesling and Merlot before becoming synonymous with Cabernet Sauvignon. As climates shift, tastes evolve, and growers continue to experiment, regions around the world are finding new ways to define themselves. Join Chris as we explore how wine regions gain their identities, how those identities change over time, and what the future may hold for some of the world's most famous winegrowing areas.

No. 34: September 21 -- Earth, Wind & Fire

🎶 Do you remember... the 21st night of September? 🎶

In September, we'll be looking at the powerful role nature plays in shaping the wines we love. From the volcanic slopes of Mount Etna and the Canary Islands to windswept vineyards overlooking the sea, some of the world's most distinctive wines come from places where the elements are impossible to ignore. Join Chris as we explore how geology, climate, and geography influence what's in our glass—and discover a few remarkable regions where vines thrive in some of the most dramatic landscapes on Earth.