discover online Drinks classes

Frequently Asked Questions

• What types of drink classes do you offer?

  +

  We offer a range of drink classes across wine, gin, whisky, beer, and fermented beverages. Wine classes include introductory courses (4-week programs at $259), masterclasses focusing on specific regions like Burgundy ($159), and challenge tastings for Champagne ($199), Chardonnay ($159), Pinot Noir ($159), and Shiraz. We also provide gin masterclasses at Little Lon distillery, whisky introduction courses, brewery tours with tastings, and fermentation workshops covering kombucha and kimchi. Virtual tastings are available for remote participation.

• How many wines do participants typically taste in these classes?

  +

  The number of tastings varies by class format. Our single-session Palate Trainer identifies wine faults across multiple samples, while challenge events feature 12-13 wines in blind tastings (Champagne Challenge includes 12-13 glasses). Wine dinners range from 10-11 wines paired with courses, and our introductory courses taste six Australian table wines. Gin masterclasses feature 4 hand-crafted gins with garnishes and paired tonic waters, finishing with a cocktail of choice.

• What is included in the wine dinner experiences?

  +

  Wine dinner experiences include multiple courses paired with premium wines. Our Scopri dinners feature 10 places, 10 wines, and a 5-course menu. Kenzan dinners include Champagne on arrival, three Chardonnays, three Pinot Noirs, Sauternes, and five individually plated dishes in a private Tatami room. Dinners at L'Hotel Gitan vary but typically feature multiple wine pairings with 4-5 course menus. Most dinners are limited to 10 participants for an intimate experience.

• Are virtual or online drink classes available?

  +

  Yes, we offer virtual tastings via Zoom. These include the Pikes Virtual Tasting for Two (live streamed from underground cellars), Rustenberg Wine Estate online tastings with a winemaker, and an exclusive private Zoom tasting with Sam Neill presenting Two Paddocks wines. Virtual participants receive specially-curated wine packs exclusive to event attendees, delivered in advance. Online brewing courses (3-Day Masterbrew Course) are also available for home brewers.

• What is the cost range for drink classes?

  +

  Pricing varies by class type. Single sessions range from $30 (Twenty Wines for $30) to $79 (Palate Trainer). Multi-week courses cost $259 (4-week wine intro) to $299 (4-week Advanced Red Wine). Specialized tastings and dinners range from $99-$240, with challenge events at $159-$199. Premium winemaker dinners and special events range from $119-$240. Gift vouchers are available for most classes, allowing recipients to redeem toward dates of their choice.

• How are blind tastings conducted in the challenge events?

  +

  Challenge events feature blind tastings where wines are presented without labels so participants cannot identify them by sight. Participants taste multiple premium examples—typically 12-13 wines—in our underground cellars or event venues. All wines are tasted in blind format, and participants vote for their preferred selection on the night. The evening concludes with a light supper and a 13th glass revealing another contender, allowing discussion of why certain wines were selected.