Coffees, Teas & Bottled Waters of the World

Expand your beverage expertise with an in-depth exploration of coffee, tea, and water. This comprehensive course includes two practice blind wine tastings to help you prepare for the Somm Essentials Exam.

You'll investigate the historical context and major growing regions worldwide for both coffee and tea, then examine the cultivation techniques specific to each plant. The course covers diverse plant varieties and styles in detail, while also discussing environmental sustainability concerns, proper service techniques, and the distinctive flavor profiles characteristic of each beverage type.

For bottled water, we examine source origins, label information and terminology, variations in mineral composition, and how these differences influence the wines you might pair with your meals. Understanding water chemistry helps enhance your overall tasting and pairing abilities.

You will also learn about the structure of the global beverage industry, its major segments, and how market trends are shifting. We explore contemporary changes in consumer preferences and purchasing behaviors, giving you insight into what today's consumers seek in their beverages.

When the class meets in-person, you'll taste examples from the five major categories of tea. Whether you attend in-class or online, you'll receive two practice wine samples for those pursuing the Somm Essentials tasting exam; others benefit from these as bonus tasting experiences.

Online Course Information:

• Your Zoom link and course materials will be sent via email several days before your class begins. Please check your spam folder, and if you haven't received materials within one business day of your scheduled class, contact [email protected] for assistance.
• If you've selected a tasting kit, it can be picked up at San Francisco Wine School or shipped to your location across the United States.
• For participants in areas where kit delivery is unavailable, wine parameter lists are provided to guide your selections. View pickup and delivery options here.
• You have the option to attend online and skip the wine tastings by selecting the "Skip the Wine" registration choice.
• Your tasting kit includes complete wine lists and detailed instructions for conducting tastings at home.