Join Stonefield Cellars’ winemaker Robert E. M. Wurz, Ph.D. as he teaches how to explore the world of wine using wine evaluation skills and sensory training through blind aroma testing and food and wine pairing. This class covers all skill levels- from beginning wine enthusiasts to seasoned veterans.
Introduction: A broad-brush review of many wine styles, provenance, varieties and complexity
Sensory Analysis: Learn to use sight, smell & taste to better evaluate wine. Begin to tease out those minor flavors and aromas in wine. (Blind Aroma Skill Challenge).
Preference Versus Defect (Tasting): Learn to identify common technical wine faults and distinguish them from aromas, flavors, and styles that simply do not suit your personal taste.
Wine Quality and Price (Blind tasting): Explore whether a wine’s price reliably signals quality, uncover the factors that make some bottles costly, and discover through blind tasting how expectations and suggestions can shape what we perceive in the glass.
Food and Wine interactions: Go far beyond the cliché, white wine with fish, red with beef. Explore the basis of food and wine compatibility. Taste and explore different food and wine pairings.
Saturday, 11/14/26, 4:30-7:00 pm in the Stonefield Cellars Production Room.
Cost: $65/per person ($60/person for wine club members)
Provided: A wide selection of wines to taste in class, a selection of foods to evaluate pairings, water and crackers for cleansing the palate.
Must be at least 21 years old to participate.
Class size limited to 24 people.
Tickets must be purchased in advance: Online Below or Over the Phone by calling 336-644-9908 during regular business hours. You can also email Robert at remwurz@stonefieldcellars.com with any additional questions. Deadline for ticket purchase is 6pm Thursday, 11/12/26!
Instructor Biography
Robert E. M. Wurz, Ph.D. – Robert is a native of Napa Valley, CA. He received his doctorate in wine chemistry from the University of California, Davis and is the current winemaker at Stonefield Cellars Winery in Stokesdale.