The Ultimate French Wine Masterclass

If ordering French wine has ever left you guessing, this class changes that. We break down regions, grapes and labels in a way that finally makes sense — practical, enjoyable and genuinely useful.

Level

Beginners

Duration

2.5 hours

Location

The Punch Bowl, Mayfair
Duke of Sussex, Waterloo

Menu

French-style Tapas and Wine Matching

Price

From £169 per person

Welcome to The Ultimate French Wine Masterclass

Cut through the complexity — unpack the key French wine regions, classic grapes and the wines that deserve a place on your table.

French wine can seem complex, with so many regions, grapes and styles to navigate — but once you understand the structure behind it, everything starts to make sense. This masterclass breaks it down clearly, giving you a practical framework you can use straight away.

French wines are enjoying a real resurgence, with quality and value improving dramatically in recent years. There are plenty of excellent, affordable bottles if you know where to look. We’ll show you the standout regions, reliable producers and everyday options that over-deliver.

You’ll explore key regions including Bordeaux, Burgundy, the Loire, the Rhône and Alsace. You’ll learn which grapes belong where, how climate and winemaking shape flavour, and how to recognise quality without relying on price. French wines are delicious by the glass, but they really come alive with food — that’s how many of them were designed to be enjoyed.

The session includes seven or eight French wines paired with simple French-style tapas. It’s a fun, practical and engaging way to understand the major regions and feel confident choosing French wine, whether you’re shopping, ordering, or pairing at home.

Reserve your place and make French wine easy, enjoyable and immediately usable.

What will I learn during the Course?

  • Practical French wine knowledge — key regions, grapes and label basics
  • Simple food pairing rules that consistently work
  • How grape variety, climate and terroir influence flavour and style
  • Where to look for value and dependable producers
  • How to choose and order French wine with confidence

Course Agenda

Start times may vary depending on the date. Please check your chosen date for the correct start time. We recommend arriving 5–10 minutes early to settle in and meet your London Wine Academy tutor.

Please arrive 5–10 minutes early to settle in, meet your tutor and get ready for your first wine.

We’ll begin with a clear introduction to tasting and explore how to assess French wines with confidence. You’ll taste a curated selection of seven or eight wines from key regions, supported by simple French-style tapas designed to highlight structure, flavour and balance.

The class is relaxed, sociable and highly informative, giving you practical insight you can use straight away. You’ll leave with a clearer understanding of French wine and the confidence to choose and enjoy it with ease.

Frequently Asked Questions

Vouchers can be used towards any course or masterclasses run by The London Wine Academy – from the London Wine Adventurer Tastings to the Signature or Platinum Masterclasses.

All courses include expert tuition, a guided tasting of wines, food (main course, tapas, or light bites depending on the class), and tasting notes.  Please check your voucher type and course details for the full list of inclusions.

You will be tasting seven or eight premium French Wines during the Masterclass

Wines tasted are typically between £18 and £50 a bottle retail.

The Punch Bowl

Famously previously owned by Guy Richie and Madonna, The Punch Bowl is one of Mayfair’s most historic and celebrated pubs.

The Duke of Sussex

The Duke of Sussex is a reflection of the needs of the local community - the food is simple and harks back to the days when the British Pub first came about.

Wine Courses

From £129 per person