Lafayette class on holiday wines
By Jessica Yadegaran
Monday, November 3rd, 2008 at 5:39 pm in Thanksgiving wines.
Monica Chappell’s teaching a class called “Winning Wines for the Holiday Table” from 6:30 to 9 p.m. on Nov. 14 at the Lafayette Community Center. I took one of her classes three years ago and recommend them to anyone getting started in wine appreciation and sensory evaluation. She has a host of experience from her days at Wine.com, and her classes are affordable and always include snacks. This one is certainly timely. Here it is in Monica’s words:
“Love wine but still need a bit more help in choosing a few bottles for the holiday table? Wine can add a perfect festive touch to holiday meals, but selecting what to drink can be daunting. So how do you choose the right wine for the big dinner? Come join us for an informative evening and discover some new and fun wines suitable for the holiday wine line-up. We’ll also be sampling a few favorite holiday foods; tasting menu includes roast turkey, sausage stuffing, glazed carrots, sweet potatoes and pumpkin pie. You’ll have one week until the big Thanksgiving meal so join us for class and pick a few tricks before the big gathering.”
For more information or to register, visit the City of Lafayette Recreation Programs web site.
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November 19th, 2008 at 12:09 pm
This was a great class. It was both informative and fun. I actually felt a little guilty getting not only some great information, but also a full turkey dinner with wines. If you’re interested in wines (at any level) and want to have a great time increasing your knowledge, this is the place to be. Monica’s a great teacher - bright, very knowledgeable and able to convey information in a relaxed, non-intimidating manner.
Cheers!
November 19th, 2008 at 12:15 pm
Agreed. Monica is a generous teacher.
November 19th, 2008 at 12:54 pm
Monica’s class is so much fun(and educational)! I went with four good friends, and we had a great time. It was interesting to pay attention to how different the wine tasted once paired with food. The evening following Monica’s class I went out to dinner. Instead of ordering my usual glass of chardonnay, I ordered a wine flight so I could use my knowledge from class. I tasted a fruity Sauvignon Blanc, a dry Riesling, and an oak-filled Chardonnay. I thought to myself…Monica would be so proud!
November 19th, 2008 at 2:04 pm
My husband and I both had an enjoyable time and learned some more about wine and food pairing. It’s a great way to start off an evening. Attend the class and then out to a wine bar for tasings accompanied by small plates!
November 19th, 2008 at 10:11 pm
Monica’s background and work experience provides her with much of the vast knowledge she has about wine, but what is so delightful about the class is her relaxed commentary and ability to convey wine and food pairing in everyday terms. As she passes glasses filled with mint, vanilla, popcorn, etc. it is just one way she helps convey the flavor and scent within the wine that further brings the wine to life. Even tonight, as I swirled, sniffed and sipped (twice!) my glass of wine, I feel more knowledgeable and savvy about the wine varietals.
November 22nd, 2008 at 3:22 pm
What a great way to spend a Friday evening! Monica’s class was very informative, but in the most relaxed and fun way. I had never considered sipping a sparkeling wine with the main course, but it was delicious. I now feel I can properly categorize wines and identify certain smells and tastes. I am no longer a Pinot Noir girl, but am ready to branch out and sample different wine/food pairings. I would highly recommend taking this class.