About
Welcome to the London Wine Academy
Our approach is simple: Enlighten – Empower – Elevate.
The London Wine Academy shares knowledge with clarity, elevates experiences with real-world practice, and leaves people feeling empowered. From curious enthusiasts to hospitality teams and regional producers, everyone is invited.
The London Wine Academy Story
Founded in 1993, The London Wine Academy was created to offer a smarter, more approachable way to learn about wine. For over 30 years, we’ve helped thousands of people build confidence through clear explanations, practical wine tasting classes and courses that feel genuinely enjoyable.
At the heart of The London Wine Academy is a commitment to making the world of wine accessible, enjoyable, and inspiring for everyone—whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned enthusiast.
We’ve stayed independent from the beginning, focused on quality teaching, expert tutors and an environment where you can ask anything without feeling judged. Our aim is simple: to help you understand what you’re tasting, choose wines you love and feel comfortable doing it.
What We Believe
At The London Wine Academy, we believe wine should be a source of joy and discovery, not intimidation. Our beginner wine courses use practical explanations and guided tastings to make concepts clear, without jargon or intimidation. You leave with real skills you can use in everyday life, whether you’re choosing a bottle for dinner or exploring new regions.
Our Teaching Approach
Our Teaching Approach
We believe people learn best when the atmosphere is relaxed and supportive. Our tutors bring decades of trade experience, but they teach in a friendly, down-to-earth style. Small groups mean you can ask questions freely and gain the confidence to trust your palate.
We use the Systematic Approach to tasting because it works — not only in the classroom but in real life. After three decades of teaching wine education in London, we know exactly what helps people grow quickly and comfortably.
Meet our founder
Leta Bester founded The London Wine Academy after discovering her passion for wine while studying Commerce and Wine Culture at Stellenbosch University in South Africa. Her early career took her across New Zealand, Australia and the UK, working directly within the trade and learning from key regions.
She completed her WSET Diploma in five months and began the Master of Wine programme the same year. After several years as a freelance educator, Leta created the Academy to offer structured, modern wine education delivered with warmth and clarity. Today, she continues to lead a team of expert tutors across courses, masterclasses, consultancy and international trade work.
Why People Choose Us
- More than 30 years of experience teaching wine with clarity
- Small, welcoming groups for a personal, enjoyable experience
- Tutors with real trade insight — not just theory
- A friendly, jargon-free teaching style people genuinely value
- High return rates and consistent 5-star feedback based on trust and quality
Whether you’re beginning your journey or building on what you already know, our wine classes are designed to give you practical skills, real confidence and an experience you’ll genuinely enjoy.
Ready to begin? Explore our courses and find the class that suits you.
