single-subject classes for Zoom Happy Hour

Are you still looking for the perfect pairing?

Annette Tomei with wine bottle

Wines, spirits, cocktails, low-and no-alcohol alternatives that go great with what YOU eat?

Love wine (or spirits) but not the intimidation factor that comes with wine education?

Looking for no-buzz alternatives for grown-up beverages that aren’t sticky sweet, but don’t know where to begin the search? 

It’s time to have some fun in a class about what’s in your glass! If you’ve taken one of Annette Tomei’s classes with us before, you know all about her infectious enthusiasm and passion for the subject matter… and the pure delight she takes in sharing it with you. If you haven’t had the pleasure yet, now’s your chance!

These are private classes held on Zoom that make a great “Happy Hour” option for you and your friends, no matter where in the world you all are at the time.

Each single-subject class runs approximately 90 minutes. This includes about 55 minutes of easy-going instruction broken up with interactive tasting time, and at least 15 minutes of group discussion and Q&A.

Afterward, if you want some private time with your group, you can continue to use the Zoom room for up to 30 additional minutes, no charge (max 2 hours).

How to book a class

  • Choose your class from those described below (special requests are also welcome)
  • Scroll to the form (below the class descriptions)
  • Fill out the form: include requested class, requested date, and questions
  • I will reply to your request within 24 hours
  • You and your friends will have a great “happy hour” to look forward to!

The fees include PDF files of class materials but not the beverages or food. See below for more details and policies.

Bubbles!

Everything about sparkling wine is a celebration. Are you someone who saves your bubbles for special occasions? Or, are you (like me) ready to pop a bottle any chance you get? There’s no wrong answer! Learn the secrets of Champagne. The lively story of Prosecco. And a few things about other characters you may not be as familiar with. Learn how the bubbles get into the wine and how that affects their flavor. And, learn the best sparkling wine words to describe exactly what you want. You’ll sparkle the next time you order at the wine store or restaurant!

$500 – use the form below to book your happy hour class

Photo by Valeria Boltneva

Sauvignon Blanc

One grape, so many styles! What’s the difference between a New Zealand SB and Sancerre? What does “green” taste like? You’ll get the answers to these questions and more. And you’ll learn some new wine words to use on your next visit to the wine shop or restaurant that will get you exactly what you want!

$500 – use the form below to book your happy hour class

Chardonnay

A grape that people either love or hate. But maybe they just don’t know enough about it. Some of its story may even surprise you! No matter if you like big oaky California Chards, a steely Chablis, or somewhere between. This class will help you see this versatile grape in a whole new light. And, you’ll learn avoid surprises on your next trip to the wine shop or restaurant!

$500 – use the form below to book your happy hour class

Pinot Noir Grapes

Pinot Noir

Possibly the most complex wine grape there is. And the most high-maintenance. And, the most expensive. Pinot Noir always shows exactly where it came from, and the quality of its upbringing. You may be surprised to learn that “barnyard” is not a bad thing to a Pinot. Learn about the many styles of Pinot Noir and the colorful words used to describe them. Leave knowing how to ask for a great Pinot that fits your budget the next time you’re in a wine store or restaurant!

$500 – use the form below to book your happy hour class

Cabernet Sauvignon

From Bordeaux to California, and beyond. This grape loves to travel! It also plays well with others. You’ll find it hanging out with some interesting characters as it roams the world. Learn about the “king of grapes” and who this Casanova has the best chemistry with. You’ll also learn the right words to use next time you’re in the wine store or restaurant to get exactly what you want!

$500 – use the form below to book your happy hour class

Not Wine: Whiskies

Spirits lovers, this one’s for you. Whiskies, like wine, also have terroir – a sense of place. Did you know there’s a difference between whisky and whiskey? You’ll learn about that and more. Including some key words to describe differences between Scotch, Bourbon, and Rye. You’ll also learn how to order, drink, and properly mix cocktails with whiskies. 

$500 – use the form below to book your happy hour class

Not Wine: Buzz-Free Pairings

Pairing with food used to always mean wine, maybe spirits. But sometimes you just want a clear head at the end of the evening. So where does that leave you? Soda? (so sweet, so basic) Juice? (I’m not at the kiddie table) Water? (yawn)… Here’s a chance to learn about all the delicious ways you can create and enjoy true adult beverages that pair beautifully with your meal – without sticky sweetness or alcohol* – just tons of flavor!

* some ingredients, such as bitters, may include trace amounts of alcohol.

$500 – use the form below to book your happy hour class

sliced orange fruit in clear drinking glass
selective focus photo of a shot glass with tequila near a slice of lime and salt

Not Wine: Mezcal & Tequila

If you think mezcal is “the one with the worm” and tequila is only for shots and margaritas, think again! Did you know all tequila is mezcal? But not all mezcal is tequila. You’ll soon learn where the lines are drawn between the two. You’ll also learn how this special spirit category is made, where the distinct flavors come from, and which are worthy of thoughtful sipping instead of shooting with salt and limon. We’ll also cover classic cocktails and food pairings as we taste our way through the three basic styles of both tequila and mezcal. 

$500 – use the form below to book your happy hour class

Let’s book your class!


small print

Payment: Single-subject classes will be charged a one-time fee. Payment is required before the email link with the class materials is sent. Links may not be shared. New guests can be added up to 1 hour before the class start time. Payment can be made on Venmo or through PayPal.

Pre-paid Package Discount: Discounts are available for groups booking multiple single-subject classes. You’ll receive a 15% discount off the total two to four classes, and a 20% discount on five or more classes.

Full payment is due at booking. Unused classes can be substituted at a later date. The actual participants may vary… you can have the same group every time, or switch it up!

Cancelation Policy: If you cancel the whole class more than 7 days prior to the class date, a full refund will be provided. If cancelled 3-7 days prior, a full credit for a future class will be provided. If under 3 days’ notice no refunds will be provided.

If I cancel the class for any reason, a full refund will be provided.

Alcohol Disclaimer: No alcoholic beverages are provided as part of these classes. Nor is alcohol required to participate in the classes. Since alcohol is NOT required to participate, I do not stipulate an age restriction. HOWEVER, please do not serve minors, and please be responsible in your consumption of alcoholic beverages.