In June 2020 we launched a series of Importer-led online wine workshops targeted towards the Sommelier and trade community. These CWI sponsored sessions are designed to allow importers to taste and network with their key sommelier clients, along with members of the press and retail, in order to develop Californian wine knowledge and skills.

The activity was specifically designed to help Importers at the height of Covid restrictions, in order to keep California brands and their business in front of the sommelier community. With these ongoing weekly sessions, we can show support and engagement with our sommelier and trade friends and continue to meet ‘face-to-face’.

During each session the importer chooses three to five wines to share with a ‘tasting panel’ of sommeliers and other trade and media friends. Often the winemaker/s will drop in from sunny California to host each session alongside the importer and give in-depth knowledge and insight about the wines, answer questions and generate discussion.

These sessions are an ideal education opportunity for those preparing for their WSET qualifications, MW or Court of Master Sommelier exams. The session is open to all California wine enthusiasts who are invited to ‘listen in’ online to each session and post questions and comments.

If you are interested in taking part as an importer or a member of the audience please email:
ukcontacts@wineinstitute.org