1000 Wines Advanced Course NL

Discover the Depth of Wine in 8 Unique Masterclasses!

Are you ready to truly understand wine?
The course “Understanding Wine – Past, Present, Future” takes you on a fascinating journey through the world of wine, inspired by the groundbreaking book One Thousand Vines by Pascaline Lepeltier.

Over the course of eight masterclasses, you’ll dive into what makes wine so complex and interesting. You’ll explore vineyard ecology, the philosophy behind natural wine, and themes such as terroir, flavor, climate, and aging. It’s a fresh and in-depth perspective that will change the way you taste wine—forever.

With interactive tastings, lively discussions, and a final hands-on tasting project, this course is a must for any serious wine enthusiast who wants to explore the science and philosophy behind wine. It’s perfect for sommeliers, connoisseurs, students, and food lovers eager to deepen their knowledge.

Each week, you’ll taste wines from the exceptional collection of Chabrol Wines – one of Amsterdam’s most celebrated wine stores. Owner Rex and his team have been sourcing Europe’s finest organic wines for over 30 years.
Classes are led by Michiel Oosterhoff, Registered Vinologist, wine educator, advisor, and entrepreneur.

Understanding Wine – Past, Present, Future

Modular Diploma Course

This in-depth wine course is based on One Thousand Vines by Pascaline Lepeltier. If you’re curious about the complexity of wine and the scientific insights behind it, this is the course for you. Like the book, this course goes beyond the technical aspects of wine and delves into the philosophical and ecological forces shaping viticulture today.

Course Structure
The course is built around three central themes, echoing the structure of the book: Vineyards, Landscape, and Wine. Each topic explores the techniques, history, and ecological and cultural context that influence wine production.

1. Vineyards & Viticulture
Here, we explore the history and science of the vine. What does it mean to manage a vineyard in a world where nature often clashes with human intervention? We examine modern viticultural techniques and reflect on more philosophical approaches that advocate for a sustainable and natural relationship with the vine.

2. Landscape, Terroir & Climate
What makes a wine landscape unique? Is terroir truly everything? In this module, we look at how geography, climate, and soil influence wine. As in the book, the concept of terroir is questioned and re-evaluated—you’ll learn why nature isn’t always the dominant player.

3. Winemaking & Wine Philosophy
This part dives into the science and artistry of making wine. How do the choices of the winemaker shape the final product? We explore the rise of natural wine, how it’s changing our understanding of taste and quality, and what it means to make “living wine.” You’ll also examine the ethical and political implications of wine and the marketing forces behind its consumption.

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Course Features

• Interactive sessions: Each masterclass includes tastings of 8 wines, tied to the theme of the evening. You’ll be challenged to contribute to group discussions using your tasting notes, applying the course concepts in real time.

Modular Format

• Module 1: Nature & Ecology

• Module 2: Tasting Wine

• Module 3: Making Wine

• Module 4: Climate & Geology

• Module 5: Terroir

• Module 6: Alchemy of Ageing

• Module 7: Language of Wine

• Module 8: Pairing Food & Wine

Assessment

• Theory Tests

  • T1: Modules 1 & 2 (Week 3)

  • T2: Modules 3, 4, 5 (Week 6)

  • T3: Modules 7 & 8

• Practical Test

  • Organise and lead your own public wine tasting, applying your knowledge, insights, and personal wine philosophy.

Who is this course for?
This course is designed for wine lovers ready to dive into the science and philosophy behind wine. It’s ideal for sommeliers, advanced students, wine professionals, and curious foodies seeking a more intellectual and critical perspective. It’s not for beginners.

📘 Recommended prior knowledge: WSET2 / SDEN2
📜 Diploma eligibility: To receive the diploma, you must complete all 8 modules and pass the 3 theory tests and 1 practical exam. Excursions are optional.

Course Outcomes
By the end of the course, you will:
• Have a deep understanding of the scientific and ecological principles of viticulture.
• Grasp the complexity of terroir and the impact of human intervention.
• Be able to evaluate wines through a broader philosophical and political lens, and develop your own wine philosophy.
• Understand how movements like natural wine and globalization are shaping the future of wine.

Course Textbook
Pascaline Lepeltier – One Thousand Vines
Hardcover – ISBN 9781784729233

Pricing

• Full course (8 masterclasses, 3 theory tests, 1 practical exam): €600 incl. VAT
  Optional excursion not included—travel & accommodation at your own cost.)

• Limited spots – register early to secure your place!