Champagne Course: Beyond the Basics, Adelaide, 19 July

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The Champagne Course: Beyond the Basics, presented by Sara Underdown, is designed for champagne lovers who want to dive deeper with their appreciation. In this relaxed class enviro nment, we will explore terroir, styles and develop an advanced tasting calibration. Drawing on 15 years of expertise in the Champagne region—travelling, writing, educating, and presenting—Sara brings deep insight and authenticity to your experience. What to expect Go from appreciation to connoisseur. Topic overview Deep Dive into Terroir Sub-regional distinctions: Montagne de Reims, Vallée de la Marne, Côte des Blancs, Côte des Bar Soil composition—impact on minerality and texture Vineyard-specific case studies Influence of microclimate and viticultural philosophy Viticulture & Innovation Biodynamic and regenerative approaches Climate change adaptation Winemaking Mastery Oxidative vs. reductive styles Oak fermentation and maturation: barrels, foudres, demi-muids Solera systems and perpetual reserves Dosage philosophy: stylistic minimalism vs. traditional richness Rare Expressions Comparative tasting analysis Single-vineyard and micro-terroir Champagnes Experimental cuvées: zero dosage, extended aging, atypical blends Advanced Tasting Calibration Blind tasting of champagnes Identifying oxidative vs. reductive signatures Distinguishing autolytic complexity from terroir-driven minerality Structured tasting note development with precision vocabulary Details Sunday, 19 July 2026 Hotel Alba 226 South Terrace, Adelaide 10am - 1pm // Masterclass 1pm - 3pm // Lunch - enjoy a Mediterranean-inspired menu designed for sharing (dietaries can be accommodated) with champagne: Marinated olives // Grilled flatbread and dip // Artisan burrata // Spinach and ricotta cannelloni // Moroccan lamb backstrap // Orange fennel salad // Charred sweet corn // Duck fat potatoes // Tiramisu Show more