Discover Spanish Wines. An introductory wine course in English
Explore the richness, diversity and character of Spain’s wines in a friendly and practical course designed for curious beginners and enthusiastic wine lovers. From elegant Rioja reds to fresh Albariño and world-famous Sherry, this course introduces the styles, regions and grape varieties that make Spain one of the most exciting wine countries in the world.
Why Spanish Wines?
Spain has one of the world’s largest vineyard areas and an extraordinary range of climates, from the cool Atlantic coast to the warm Mediterranean shore and the high inland plateau. This diversity helps produce a wide spectrum of wines: crisp whites, structured reds, traditional sparkling wines and distinctive fortified wines. Spain is especially known for grapes such as Tempranillo, Garnacha, Albariño, Verdejo and Palomino, and for iconic regions including Rioja, Ribera del Duero, Rías Baixas, Priorat, Jerez and Cava-producing areas.
What You Will Taste and Learn
Join us for an enjoyable introduction to the wines of Spain and build your confidence in tasting, discussing and choosing Spanish wines. This course is ideal for beginners, travellers, hospitality professionals and anyone with a growing interest in wine
- How climate and geography influence Spanish wine styles
- How to recognise major Spanish grapes and regions
- How oak ageing changes aroma, texture and flavour
- How to compare still, sparkling and fortified wines
- How to pair Spanish wines with food
Key Regions and Styles
Rioja – Famous for Tempranillo-based reds, often aged in oak and labelled Crianza, Reserva or Gran Reserva.
Ribera del Duero – Known for powerful, structured reds made mainly from Tempranillo.
Rías Baixas – Celebrated for fresh, aromatic Albariño white wines, ideal with seafood.
Priorat – Produces concentrated, mineral reds from steep vineyards, often based on Garnacha and Cariñena.
Jerez – Home of Sherry, from very dry styles such as Fino to richer, more complex styles.
Cava – Spain’s traditional-method sparkling wine, mainly produced in Catalonia.
Main Grape Varieties
Tempranillo – Spain’s flagship red grape, offering red fruit, spice and ageing potential.
Garnacha – Generous, juicy and expressive, often showing ripe fruit and warmth.
Albariño – A lively white grape with citrus, floral and saline notes.
Verdejo – A fresh white variety with herbal, citrus and stone-fruit character.
Palomino – The key grape for many Sherry styles.
Macabeo, Xarel·lo and Parellada – The classic grapes used in many Cava wines.
How to Read a Spanish Wine Label
Spanish labels often tell you both where the wine comes from and how long it has been aged. You may see terms such as Crianza, Reserva and Gran Reserva, especially on red wines. These indicate ageing categories and can offer clues about style, complexity and maturity. Learning these terms is one of the easiest ways to feel more confident when choosing Spanish wine.
Discover Spain in every glass
Join us for an enjoyable introduction to the wines of Spain and build your confidence in tasting, discussing and choosing Spanish wines. This course is ideal for beginners, travellers, hospitality professionals and anyone with a growing interest in wine.