skip to main content
Rated 'Excellent' on TripAdvisor

Saturday France vs New World at Madingley Hall

There are no upcoming dates for this event. Please view all events.

Duration
5 hours including lunch

Event Description

Join us for a friendly and informal day of tasting and learning about wine at Madingley Hall. Part of the University of Cambridge, the 16th-century hall is set in 8 acres of beautiful parkland.

The hall was once rented by Queen Victoria for her son Edward Prince of Wales (later Edward VII) to reside while he studied at Cambridge.

Our day is hosted in a beautiful room with French doors opening onto the terrace.  Starting with Champagne, we'll compare wines made using the same grape, but in different countries (no previous experience needed). A delicious two-course lunch is included. 

On this fascinating course we will compare wines made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah/Shiraz, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and other grapes.

We'll sample the classic French versions and compare them blind with New World countries like Australia, New Zealand, Chile, Argentina, South Africa and USA.

You will learn the basics about the different grape varieties and how to taste wine like a professional. No previous experience is necessary.

Plus - watch and learn how to open a bottle of sparkling wine using a sword! 

Madingley Hall is just a 15-minute taxi ride from Cambridge rail station or you can park in the grounds. You can also book in advance to say overnight in double rooms from £99 bed and breakfast (special 10% discount to wine school guests - email us asking for the code after you have booked).

Course outline

  • Burgundy vs New World (Chardonnay and Pinot Noir)
  • Bordeaux vs New World (Cabernet Sauvignon & Merlot blends)
  • Rhone vs New World (Grenache & Shiraz)
  • Loire & Alsace vs New World (Sauvignon Blanc & Riesling)
  • How to taste wine like a professional – aroma, flavours, describing wines
  • Improve your senses
  • Tutored Tasting of 13 wines
  • Food & Wine matching tips & advice

Halfway through the day we will take a break from the hard work of tasting wine to enjoy a delicious two-course lunch followed by a mini-tour of the hall to appreciate its history.

All our courses can be purchased as a Gift either as a dated or undated voucher.

Gift Voucher

Our Gift Vouchers for fun Tastings and Courses make a perfect gift for any occasion.

  • Choose an event or £ value
  • Add your message (optional)
  • FREE Email Gift Vouchers
  • Or upgrade with a gold-embossed Gift Voucher delivered in stylish wallet
  • Valid for 24 months
  • Redeem easily at all our wine schools UK-wide – over 40 locations!
Gift Vouchers

Local Wine Schools in the Press

daily-telegraph--white

'The best wine courses and classes in the UK'

Victoria Moore
Daily Telegraph
timeout--white

'Londons loveliest wine tasting classes'

Time Out
Time Out Magazine

We're part of the Local Wine School Network

The world's fastest-growing network of independent wine schools, teaching fun, accessible wine courses at all levels – ‘wine tasting for everyone’. We also offer professional courses and qualifications for those wishing to start or develop their wine careers.

Wine Schools Franchises
Local Schol Network Map
Top