Grapes & Grains: Wine for Beer Lovers, Beer for Wine Lovers

University of MN:  Life Learning Beer and Wine Class with Michael & Leslee!  

Beer drinkers and wine drinkers tend to stand firm in their disparate camps, but there is much for either side to love about the other. So let’s come together! During three lively sessions, sommelier Leslee Miller and cicerone Michael Agnew will reveal the concepts and perceptions (and misperceptions!) that make wine and beer approachable, and enjoyable, to those in both beverage camps.

Participants will explore the core natures of each drink, agricultural and industrial, discover the similarities between beer and wine terminology (for instance, varietal and style) and then dig deep to examine what makes each beverage unique.

Tastings will help participants discern the flavor palettes of beer and wine, and these comparisons will help drinkers choose the beverage best suited to their tastes. Are you a Cabernet drinker? Then you might like a porter or a stout. Love hoppy IPAs? Perhaps try a Verdejo from Spain.

Because many of the great wine regions are also havens for great beer, the final session will focus on travel, and both instructors will share their favorite winery and brewery tours and suggest etiquette tips for visits. Is it okay to ask for samples? How honestly (and how often) should you share your opinions about the product? You’ll learn the dos and don’ts to help you travel, sip, and wet your whistle like a pro.

No experience is necessary. A $40 fee, payable to the instructor at the first class, will cover the cost of wine and beer for all sessions.

Michael Agnew is the author of A Perfect Pint’s Beer Guide to the Heartland. He is Minnesota’s first Certified Cicerone and the founder of A Perfect Pint, which offers beer tastings and educational experiences for private and corporate events. He is a national judge for the Beer Judge Certification Program, a restaurant consultant, and a teacher at Cooks of Crocus Hill.

Leslee Miller is a dually certified sommelier through the International Sommelier Guild and the Court of Master Sommeliers. She is the former director of Archery Summit Winery in Oregon and was a member of the board of directors for its sister winery, Pine Ridge of Napa, California. Miller currently owns and operates Amusee, an international wine-consulting firm. Her goal, first and foremost, is to make wine education accessible and “drinkable” for all levels of enthusiasts.