A Voyager Masterclass
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.
A Voyager 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.
French wine tasting in London: The Ultimate French Wine Masterclass is a 2.5-hour masterclass with The London Wine Academy, an independent wine school established in 1993 that has welcomed over 50,000 students. The Academy is rated 4.7 by guests on Google and verified as a Top Rated Wine Educator 2026 by Trustindex. You taste French wines from key regions with a menu of French regional plates chosen to complement the wines. Sample regions include Champagne, Alsace, the Loire, Chablis, Burgundy, Beaujolais, Bordeaux, the South West, the Rhône, Languedoc and Roussillon. Led by Masters of Wine, Master Sommeliers and WSET Diploma holders, the masterclass covers key regions, grapes and label basics, how grape variety, climate and terroir shape flavour, regional food pairing, where to find value and dependable producers, and how to choose and order French wine. Suitable for beginner and intermediate level, with gift vouchers available. The London Wine Academy was shortlisted as a finalist for the International Wine Challenge (IWC) Wine Educator / Communicator of the Year 2026.
Since 1993
Over 30 years teaching wine in London
Expert Tutors
Led by Masters of Wine, Master Sommeliers and WSET Diploma holders
IWC 2026 Finalist
Wine Educator / Communicator of the Year
50,000+
Students taught across three decades
At a Glance
Duration
2.5 hours
Wines
8 French wines
Menu
French regional plates chosen to complement the wines
Venue
The Punch Bowl, Mayfair
Level
Beginners/intermediate
Price
From £189 per person
Save with a 3 or 4 masterclass bundle
Welcome to The Ultimate French Wine Masterclass
Unpack the key French wine regions, classic grapes and the wines that deserve a place on your table, with a menu of French regional plates chosen to complement the wines.
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 French masterclass breaks it down clearly, giving you a practical framework you can use straight away.
Why French wine now
A real resurgence
French wines are enjoying a real resurgence, with quality and value improving dramatically in recent years.
Value if you know where to look
We’ll show you the standout regions, reliable producers and everyday options that over-deliver.
Made for food
French wines really come alive with food – that’s how many of them were designed to be enjoyed.
Sample key regions you’ll discover
Learn which grapes belong where, how to read French wine labels, how climate and winemaking shape flavour, and how to recognise quality without relying on price.
The line-up changes through the year, so you may also taste wines from the Jura, Provence and beyond.
What will I learn during the French Masterclass?
Key regions and labels
Practical French wine knowledge: key regions, grapes and label basics.
Regional food pairing
Regional food pairing rules that consistently work.
Grape, climate and terroir
How grape variety, climate and terroir influence flavour and style.
Value and dependable producers
Where to look for value and dependable producers.
Choosing and ordering
How to choose and order French wine, whether you’re shopping or dining out.
Agenda
- Start times may vary – please check your chosen date
- Please arrive 5–10 minutes early to settle in and meet your tutor
Settle in
Meet your London Wine Academy tutor and fellow guests.
An introduction to tasting
We begin with a clear introduction to tasting and how to assess French wines.
French wines from key regions
Taste a curated selection of wines from Bordeaux, Burgundy, the Loire, the Rhône and Alsace.
French regional plates
French regional plates are served alongside, chosen to highlight structure, flavour and balance.
Practical insight to take home
Leave with a clearer understanding of French wine and practical insight you can use straight away.
Special Offer Bundles
Voyager Masterclass Bundles
Perfect for those ready to explore the world’s great wine countries in more depth. Choose any three or four of the masterclasses below, including our seasonal masterclasses when they run, and find the ones you’ll fall in love with.
What Our Guests Say
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are French wines labelled by region rather than grape?
France’s labelling system is based on terroir – the idea that where a wine comes from is as important as the grape used. Once you understand which grapes are typical of each region (e.g. Pinot Noir in Burgundy), labels become much easier to navigate.
What French wine regions will be covered?
You’ll explore France’s key regions, from Champagne, Alsace and the Loire in the north to Burgundy, Beaujolais, Bordeaux, the South West, the Rhône, Languedoc and Roussillon. The line-up changes through the year, so you may also taste wines from the Jura, Provence and beyond. Along the way, you’ll learn which grapes belong where, how to read French wine labels, how climate and winemaking shape flavour, and how to recognise quality without relying on price.
What is the difference between Bordeaux and Burgundy?
Bordeaux produces predominantly blended wines (often Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot), while Burgundy focuses on single-variety wines, mainly Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Bordeaux is known for its château system, while Burgundy emphasises vineyard-specific expression.
What does AOC or AOP mean on a French wine label?
AOC (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée) or AOP (Appellation d’Origine Protégée) indicates the wine comes from a defined region and follows strict regulations on grape varieties, yields, and production methods – a key indicator of origin and quality.
What do Grand Cru & Premier Cru mean?
Is French wine good value or is it always expensive?
French wine spans every price point, and that’s true of every region, from Champagne and Bordeaux to the Loire and Languedoc. Even in famous names such as Burgundy, there’s good value to be found once you know where to look and what to look out for. That’s exactly what this masterclass helps you do.
What is the Loire Valley known for?
The Loire Valley is known for its diversity, including crisp Sauvignon Blanc, versatile Chenin Blanc (from dry to sweet), light reds from Cabernet Franc, and high-quality sparkling wines. The wines are typically fresh, food-friendly, and great value.
What food is included during the masterclass?
The session includes eight French wines paired with a menu of French regional plates chosen to complement the wines.
How much does the French Wine Masterclass cost?
The French Wine Masterclass is £189 per person, includes eight French wines and a menu of French regional plates chosen to complement the wines.
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