Bellagio Introduces A Master Sommelier's Wine Classroom

An interactive series of 90-minute seminars in which guests learn about the multifaceted world of wine from Bellagio's highly trained and skilled wine team. Beginning Wednesday, Feb. 20 at 6 p.m., classes will be held the third Wednesday of every month at MICHAEL MINA restaurant* and will be led by Bellagio's Director of Wine and Master Sommelier Jason Smith.

Smith designed the program to further wine knowledge through tastings, informative and lively presentations and open discussions with the industry's most highly honored wine professionals. Each class will explore fascinating details about the production of eight exclusive wines including the specific soil used in planting grapevines, climatic effects on the grapes' growth and nuances of the wine's flavor profile.

The Master Sommelier's Wine Classroom will include in-depth wine programming on a variety of topics, such as:

Bellagio's Introduction to the World of Wine: Feb. 20

From the vines to the glass, learn how great wines become great after experiencing this class on everything from viticulture to vinification and the classic grape varieties of the world.

Chardonnay and the Reasons We Love It: Mar. 20

Smith will take guests on an exploration of the complexities that separate one Chardonnay from another in this class that highlights the best from around the world. The journey begins with the crisp versions found in the Chablis region in France, continues to textbook examples from California and even explores the emerging wine areas of the Southern Hemisphere.

Que Syrah & More Syrah: April 17

A bold red wine popular throughout the world for its smooth yet powerful notes, Syrah is one that wine connoisseurs just can't get enough of. This in-depth class will examine Syrah from as far away as Australia, where it's known as Shiraz, to California.

Simply Spain: May 15

This culturally inspired class delves deep into the world of red and white Spanish wines as Smith showcases labels from a variety of the country's finest vineyards. Guests can expect to sample some of Spain's signature wines including sherry and cava as well as learn the climatic elements that make this country a prime wine-producing region.

The Pacific Northwest: June 19

The Pacific Northwest is rapidly becoming a world-recognized wine destination. Guests will discover the best this neighboring region has to offer through a visually stimulating and palate-pleasing multi-sensory experience.

A Worldwide View of Riesling: July 17

One of the world's greatest white wines, Riesling is enjoyed by wine experts and beginners alike. Smith will enlighten guests as he explains the regional differences in this wine and why it is one of the most consumed wines by Master Sommeliers.

Pair Food & Wine Like an Expert: Aug. 21

In this seminar, Smith will teach guests the secrets to ensuring that home-cooked meals are paired as well as they are in fine-dining restaurants. After one session, pupils will have guests in awe at their next dinner party.

The Incomparable Wines of Burgundy: Sept. 18

Perhaps the most famous of wine regions, the slopes of Burgundy, France create exceptional conditions from which Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes thrive. Guests may elevate their wine knowledge by sampling some of the best wines available from this famous region.

Champagne & Sparkling Wine from Around the World: Oct. 16

Students are invited to raise a glass, toast and let the delicate bubbles cascade across their palates as they sample the finest Champagnes and Sparkling Wines from around the world while learning what makes each selection different from the next.

Become a Blind Tasting Superstar: Nov. 20

A key component of the Master Sommelier certification is passing a series of blind tastings. This class gives guests the chance to channel their inner sommelier and see how they stack up against the Masters as Smith provides helpful tips for success.

Tickets are priced at $80 per person or $200 for a three-class package and may be purchased on Bellagio's Epicurean Epicenter website or by calling the Bellagio Concierge at 866-406-7117.

About: Bellagio