Vitis House https://www.vitishouse.com/ Wine School: WSET & WSG Courses, Wines & Spirits Classes Mon, 08 Sep 2025 20:57:52 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 170508878 Your August Pour: Marcona Almonds, TexSom Highlights & More https://www.vitishouse.com/your-august-pour-marcona-almonds-texsom-highlights-more/ Fri, 29 Aug 2025 20:32:25 +0000 https://www.vitishouse.com/?p=15757 The post Your August Pour: Marcona Almonds, TexSom Highlights & More appeared first on Vitis House.

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Meet the Queen of Almonds: Marcona

If regular almonds are the reliable backup singer, Marcona almonds are the headliner — smooth, buttery, and unforgettable. Native to Spain’s Mediterranean coast, these golden gems have earned the title of “queen of almonds” thanks to their round shape, sweeter taste, and delicate crunch that sets them apart from their California cousins.

From Turrón to Tapas

Grown mainly in Alicante, Valencia, and Catalonia, Marconas have been woven into Spanish culinary tradition for centuries. They are the star of Turrón de Jijona y Alicante — the iconic nougat with DOP status. They shine in simple tapas like almonds fried in olive oil and sprinkled with sea salt (just like we serve at Olé Wine & Tapas). Plus they also add elegance to Romesco Sauce or Ajo Blanco, the chilled almond soup from Andalucía once enjoyed by farmers during harvest.

Yes, they come with a higher price tag, but they’re worth every bite. With their richness of flavor and healthful balance of protein, good fats, and antioxidants, they’ve become the preferred snack for chefs, sommeliers, and food lovers alike. Luxurious yet wholesome, simple yet elegant, Marconas prove that sometimes the humblest ingredients offer the greatest indulgence.

vitis house marcona almonds

Wine Loves Almonds

No mention of almonds is complete without wine:

  • Fino or Manzanilla Sherry → salty & buttery perfection
  • DO Cava → bubbles that refresh between bites
  • Amontillado or Oloroso → nutty depth that mirrors the almond’s own character

Whether enjoyed in a festive holiday turrón, sprinkled over a salad, or paired with a glass of Sherry, Marcona almonds remind us why Spain treasures them so deeply. Small, golden, and noble, they elevate every moment.

👉 We love serving Marcona in some of our classes, join us and discover why Spain pairs culture, flavor, and wine so beautifully.

 

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D.O. Cava Host a Master Class at TEXSOM 2025 https://www.vitishouse.com/d-o-cava-host-a-master-class-at-texsom-2025/ Thu, 21 Aug 2025 16:30:33 +0000 https://www.vitishouse.com/?p=15669 The post D.O. Cava Host a Master Class at TEXSOM 2025 appeared first on Vitis House.

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D.O. Cava sets standard with 100% Organic regulation for Guarda Superior, Featured at TEXSOM 2025

Honoring sustainability and heritage, the iconic sparkling wine region, renowned for its focus on traditional method production and full traceability from origin to bottle, takes the spotlight at a leading U.S. wine conference.

Vilafranca del Penedès, August 14, 2025 – Protected Denomination of Origin Cava, one of the European Union’s  premier sparkling wine regions, has set a new global standard by achieving 100% organic production for every bottle of Cava de Guarda Superior—including Reserva, Gran Reserva, and the prestigious Cava de Paraje Calificado. This bold step underscores D.O. Cava’s dedication to sustainability, transparency, and authenticity while strengthening its position in the competitive U.S. sparkling wine market, where it continues to captivate wine lovers with its heritage, quality, and commitment to organic viticulture.

This achievement will be in the spotlight at the TEXSOM Conference 2025, held August 24–26 at the Irving Convention Center at LasColinas in Texas. TEXSOM is one of the most influential wine education forums in the United States, drawing worldclass sommeliers, importers, distributors, and educators, offering D.O. Cava an unparalleled platform to share its story of innovation, tradition, and organic leadership.

Guarda Superior Cava represents the pinnacle of quality and commitment to excellence within the D.O. Cava. These wines must come from certified organic vineyards that are more than ten years old, ensuring maturity and depth of expression. Yield is strictly limited to a maximum of 10,000 kilograms per hectare for Reserva and Gran Reserva, and 8,000 kilograms per hectare for Paraje Calificado, reinforcing a focus on quality over quantity.

All Guarda Superior Cavas undergo an extended aging process on the lees, starting with a minimum of 18 months for Reserva, contributing to their complexity and refined character. In addition, they are exclusively vintage Cavas, highlighting the unique identity of each harvest.

D.O. Cava at TEXSOM 2025: Celebrating Organic Excellence

D.O. Cava will highlight its organic Cavas de Guarda Superior across six curated Expo Trade Tasting sessions:

  • Sunday, August 24 – 5:00 PM
  • Monday, August 25 – 10:15 AM, 2:15 PM, 5:00 PM
  • Tuesday, August 26 – 10:15 AM, 2:15 PM

Summer Camp Breakfast Masterclass:

On Sunday, August 24, from 7:00–8:30 AM, D.O. Cava and Jamón ConsorcioSerrano will host a “Perfected by Time” masterclass breakfast led by Doreen Colondres, Special Campaign Ambassador. This byinvitationonly session for rising talent in the wine and hospitality industry pairs organic Cavas de Guarda Superior with Jamón ConsorcioSerrano and a signature dish of mushrooms with Serrano ham and poached egg, offering attendees an immersive taste of  gastronomic heritage.

“Sharing D.O. Cava with sommeliers and rising stars at TEXSOM is more than a tasting—it’s a chance to bridge the soul of Spanish winemaking with the vibrant heart of U.S. wine culture,” said Doreen Colondres. “These organic Cavas are not just wines; they are stories of resilience, sustainability, and centuries-old craftsmanship—each bubble a perfect match for the bold, honest flavors of the Mediterranean.”

vitis house do cava

Organic Growth and U.S. Market Expansion

D.O. Cava, Spain’s leading sparkling wine export, continues to expand its global reach. In 2024, the region sold more than 218 million bottles, nearly 70% of which are exported globally, with the United States as the secondlargest market outside the European Union. As part of a European Unionfunded threeyear promotion program, D.O. Cava is executing a robust campaign in the U.S. to elevate the presence and appreciation of Cava de Guarda Superior among American consumers and professionals.

New Standards in Cava Production

D.O. Cava’s commitment to sustainability also includes innovative Quality Stamps that guarantee the origin and authenticity of each bottle. These quality seals feature details on the category, origin, minimum aging, a unique guarantee code, and a QR code offering consumers deeper insights into the wine and pairing suggestions. A new “integral producer” mark allows consumers to easily identify wineries that complete the entire production process—from pressing the grapes to vinification—on their own estates.

Mediterranean Terroir and Traditional Excellence

Produced with indigenous grape varieties and crafted using the traditional method of bottle fermentation and extended aging, D.O. Cava embodies the Mediterranean heritage that sets it apart from other sparkling wines. This combination of terroir and time produces a refined, complex profile, offering an elevated tasting experience that resonates with sommeliers and wine lovers alike.

Sustainability Aligned with EU Goals

Aligned with the European Union’s “Farm to Fork” strategy, D.O. Cava’s sustainability efforts go beyond organic certification. These include:

  • Limiting soilpolluting chemicals,
  • Protecting biodiversity,
  • Employing traditional soil conservation techniques,
  • Prioritizing responsible water management,
  • Reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and
  • Using recyclable and compostable materials such as plantbased plastics, nonpolluting inks, and recycled paper.

Additionally, solar energy is used for refrigeration and selfsupply. This commitment supports 280,000 direct jobs and more than 22,000 indirect positions in rural communities, ensuring D.O. Cava remains a powerful economic and cultural force in the region’s wine industry.

vitis house do cava

About D.O. Cava:  D.O. Cava is a prestigious Denomination of Origin recognized for producing some of the world’s finest sparkling wines. Cava is known for its exceptional quality and versatility, made using the traditional method, which involves secondary fermentation in the bottle. Cava is celebrated globally and exported to over 100 countries, making it one of the most exported sparkling wine in Europe. The regulatory body ensures rigorous standards are met to maintain the excellence and authenticity of Cava, allowing it to consistently rank among the best sparkling wines internationally.

EUROPEAN PROMOTION CAMPAIGN: In 2024, the European Promotion Program for D.O. Cava and Jamón ConsorcioSerrano was launched. The goal is to increase the competitiveness, consumption, and awareness of the high production standards of European Union agricultural products in the U.S.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Rene Mandeville
iVoice Communications
Email: rene@ivoice.agency
Phone: +1 (917) 833-4735

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A Dark and Bubbly Love Story, What’s Buzzing in RDU and Last Minute Spots https://www.vitishouse.com/a-dark-and-bubbly-love-story-whats-buzzing-in-rdu-and-last-minute-spots/ Mon, 28 Jul 2025 15:55:15 +0000 https://www.vitishouse.com/?p=15488 The post A Dark and Bubbly Love Story, What’s Buzzing in RDU and Last Minute Spots appeared first on Vitis House.

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🍺 Chocolate & Beer: A Dark and Bubbly Love Story 🍫

Who said chocolate only pairs well with wine or belongs strictly at dessert?

Let’s break the rules and dive into an unexpected, irresistible match: chocolate and beer. Two bold worlds that, when brought together, create a full-on sensory celebration.

A little history (and science!) in every bite

Chocolate has deep roots in Latin America. The Mayans and Aztecs revered it as a divine gift, often consumed as a frothy, bitter drink. Today, cacao undergoes fermentation, drying, roasting, and refining — a process that brings out its full aroma, texture, and complexity.

When made with 70% or more cacao, chocolate isn’t just richer and less sweet — it’s also loaded with antioxidants. It may boost your mood, sharpen your brain, and even support heart health (in moderation, of course). The purer, the better. That overly processed chocolate with added fats and sugar? Doesn’t count.

vitis house chocolate and beer

So, where does beer come in?

More than you’d think! Craft beer styles like stout, porter, dubbel, and even some dark sours offer roasted, bitter, fruity, or spiced notes that beautifully echo and contrast the flavors of dark, milk, salty, or even spicy chocolate.

Here are a few dreamy pairings to try:
🍫 Dark chocolate + imperial stout = bold and intense
🍫 Caramel chocolate + brown ale = smooth and cozy
🍫 Sea salt chocolate + porter or gose = sweet with a salty twist
🍫 Orange or dried fruit chocolate + Belgian dubbel = elegant and spiced

Ready to taste the magic?

Celebrate Chocolate Month with something new. Gather some friends, grab a variety of chocolates and craft beers, and start exploring. No strict rules — just taste, play, and enjoy. The result might surprise you… in the best way.

Want to take your beer knowledge beyond the glass?

future beer pro, our WSET L1 and L2 Awards in Beer will open your palate to a world of styles, flavors, and stories behind every pint. Join us and learn to taste, pair, and talk beer like never before.🍺

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Doreen Colondres to Host Wine and Culinary Master Classes https://www.vitishouse.com/doreen-colondres-to-host-wine-and-culinary-master-classes-at-nations-top-culinary-schools/ Fri, 09 May 2025 20:40:17 +0000 https://www.vitishouse.com/?p=15084 The post Doreen Colondres to Host Wine and Culinary Master Classes appeared first on Vitis House.

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Doreen Colondres to Host Wine and Culinary Master Classes at Nation’s Top Culinary Schools

Raleigh, NC — May 2025 — Doreen Colondres, celebrated cookbook author, chef, and founder of Vitis House, is bringing her expertise to a national stage this spring. As U.S. ambassador for Crafted in Spain, Perfected by Time — a campaign co-funded by the European Union — Colondres will lead a series of prestigious master classes at the renowned Culinary Institute of America (CIA) in New York, as well as CUNY CityTech and the Institute of Culinary Education (ICE) in Manhattan.

Through immersive seminars, Colondres will introduce future culinary leaders to the stories and flavors of two of Spain’s most emblematic products: Jamón Consorcio Serrano and the Denomination of Origin Cava (D.O. Cava). These sessions aim to connect students to Spain’s rich traditions and innovative future, one slice and sip at a time.

“It’s an honor to represent this campaign and share Spain’s culinary treasures,” said Colondres. “A few surprises are coming soon — I promised myself to bring a taste of these classes back home to Vitis House fans and our Raleigh community.”

This honor adds another milestone for Colondres, who brings global flavors to Raleigh, where she inspires enthusiasts and professionals alike in the art of food, wine, beer, and spirits.

Her culinary journey continues this summer with a Master Class at the Summer Fancy Food Show 2025 in June, followed by an exclusive session at TexSom, where she’ll inspire industry professionals through the flavors, legacy, and stories of Spanish wine and cuisine.

From Raleigh to New York and beyond, Doreen proudly shares how local passion can make a global impact.

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Food and Wine Tour Experience https://www.vitishouse.com/food-and-wine-tour-experience/ Tue, 21 Jan 2025 15:53:26 +0000 https://www.vitishouse.com/?p=14444 The post Food and Wine Tour Experience appeared first on Vitis House.

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Maximize Your Food and Wine Tour Experience

Wine tours are an exciting way to immerse yourself in food and winemaking, especially overseas. Connecting with chefs, farmers and winemakers, while discovering the stories behind every bottle and ingredient is inspiring, relaxing, and fun. Whether you’re a food and wine lover, a passionate enthusiast, or a professional, thoughtful planning can transform your trip into an unforgettable journey.

Step 1: Choosing the Perfect Wine Tour

Define Your Goals

    • Are you touring for fun, education, or career growth?
    • Focus on a region or style that matches your interests, like sparkling wines in Champagne or bold reds in Ribera del Duero.

Research Destinations

    • Explore iconic regions like Rioja, Bordeaux, Madrid, or hidden gems like Rueda, Ribera del Duero or San Sebastián.
    • Plan for the best travel times, such as harvest season, and avoid extremes of summer or winter.

Prioritize Unique Experiences

    • Choose for small tours with workshops, tastings, and intimate events that you can’t replicate on your own.
    • Ensure the itinerary balances activities, avoiding over-scheduled days or excessive downtime.
    • Make sure the food is the quality you expect (authentic local food, Michelin restaurants)

Seek Trusted Reviews

    • Read feedback from past travelers or consult wine professionals for recommendations.

Step 2: Preparing for Your Wine Tour

Plan and Confirm Itinerary

    • Stick to 2–3 experiences daily to avoid palate fatigue and allow time for exploration and breaks.

Know the Basics

    • Brush up on regional wine, food, and culture to enrich your experience.
    • Learn a few local phrases and basic tasting etiquette to enhance interactions.

Pack Smart

    • Bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and space for wine bottles or souvenirs.

Notify Allergies and Stay Nourished

    • Inform organizers of dietary restrictions. Stay hydrated and eat a hearty breakfast to balance tastings.

Step 3: Maximizing Your Wine Tour

Engage Fully

    • Ask questions about vineyard practices, blending techniques, and pairings, but be mindful of the group’s schedule.
    • Savor every meal and tasting to appreciate the craftsmanship.

Capture Memories

    • Take photos and share your journey on social media to connect with the hotels, restaurants, wineries and show appreciation.

Support the Wineries

    • Purchase bottles of exclusive vintages or join a wine club to extend your connection.

Reflect and Share

    • Review notes, reflect on what you learned, and share your experience with fellow enthusiasts or communities.

Add Free Days

    • Schedule extra time post-tour to relax, reflect, and ease back into daily life.

Vitis House: Elevating Your Wine Adventures

At Vitis House, we create unforgettable wine tours combining education, culture, and sensory delights. From Madrid and Ribera del Duero to Rioja and San Sebastian, our trips feature wine tastings, cooking classes, olive oil tastings, jamón workshops, a pinch of history and cultural experiences, time to toast with locals, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned expert or just starting, we deliver personalized experiences that bring the art of wine to life.

Ready to plan your next journey? Explore our small group tours and let us guide you through the world, one sip at a time.

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What’s This Funky Flavor? https://www.vitishouse.com/whats-this-funky-flavor/ Fri, 08 Nov 2024 14:06:18 +0000 https://www.vitishouse.com/?p=14146 The post What’s This Funky Flavor? appeared first on Vitis House.

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Ever tasted a wine and thought, Whoa, this smells like a barnyard? Or caught hints of leather, spice, or even… Band-Aids? That’s Brett! Short for Brettanomyces, this wild yeast can add a unique and sometimes polarizing twist to wines. It’s a bit like the “bad boy” of wine yeast, adding everything from smoky clove to earthy leather aromas.

Why does Brett Happens?

Brett can sneak into wine from the vineyard, barrels, or even the winery itself. It loves a cozy spot to thrive, especially in red wines with low sulfites. Winemakers who appreciate some rustic, complex flavors might let a hint of Brett stay, while others work hard to keep it out!

The Good, The Bad, and The Brett-y

Here’s the thing—Brett is polarizing. For some, it’s a charming layer of depth; for others, it’s downright funky. Here’s a breakdown of the flavors Brett can add:

  • Barnyard or Stable: Like stepping into a hay-filled barn, earthy and animal-like.
  • Leather & Tobacco: Think of an old leather jacket or cigar box.
  • Smoky Clove: A bit of spice, often found in wines like Rioja or Rhône reds.
  • Band-Aid or Medicinal: Not for everyone! Some might find this a bit… hospital-like.
  • Gamey: Adds a touch of wild, meaty flavors, like a walk through the forest.

To Brett or Not to Brett?

Brett divides wine lovers. For some, it adds depth and a rustic charm. For others, it detracts from the fruity or floral notes they enjoy. If you’re curious to try wines with a touch of Brett, explore those from traditional, Old World regions that use minimal intervention techniques like parts of the Rhône and Rioja. But it’s not always a crowd-pleaser. At the end of the day, Brett is about balance and personal taste.

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The Challenge of Acidity in Ribera del Duero https://www.vitishouse.com/the-challenge-of-acidity-in-ribera-del-duero/ Thu, 24 Oct 2024 16:57:21 +0000 https://www.vitishouse.com/?p=14093 The post The Challenge of Acidity in Ribera del Duero appeared first on Vitis House.

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When someone asks me how real climate change is, I always respond, “talk to a winemaker.” Ribera del Duero DO, known for its bold yet elegant Tempranillo wines, is just one of many regions facing challenges due to climate change-particularly when it comes to preserving the acidity that keeps wines fresh and balanced. With the region’s naturally warm climate, overripe grapes can easily result in wines that feel flat, missing that essential vibrancy.

To tackle this, even the most prestigious wineries are exploring higher-altitude vineyards in non-traditional areas. These elevated sites benefit from cooler temperatures, which help the grapes maintain their acidity. The stark temperature difference between warm days and cool nights (known as diurnal variation) slows down ripening, allowing the grapes to develop brighter acidity. Not only does this solve the acidity challenge, but it also boosts the wine’s aging potential, letting more complex and nuanced flavors shine through over time.

Top producers are embracing this shift, with a focus on regions like the province of Soria and the northern edges of Ribera del Duero. These areas, sometimes nearly an hour away from the big-name wineries, bring new possibilities and diverse terroirs into the mix. In fact, the move to higher-altitude plots isn’t just a workaround for acidity-it’s redefining the region’s identity while safeguarding the quality of Ribera del Duero wines for the future.

Because of this, a growing trend is emerging with more attention on small, highly specific sub-regions-what they call parcelas de viñas (vineyard parcels). These small plots, often with very old vines, showcase distinct terroirs with naturally higher acidity. In some cases, the grapes are so exceptional they’re bottled on their own. In others, they re blended with other grapes to lift the overall acidity in a wine, maintaining the authentic balance and freshness of Tempranillo in the region.

Are these changes for the better? So far, yes. Unlike other regions that have had to add new grape varieties to cope with climate pressures, Ribera del Duero is holding steady. For now, the DO will continue allowing its traditional varieties: Tinta del País (Tempranillo), Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, Garnacha Tinta, and Albillo Mayor (used in both reds and whites).

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Wine & Binge-Watch: “Under the Vines” & “Drops of God” https://www.vitishouse.com/wine-binge-watch-under-the-vines-drops-of-god/ Wed, 11 Sep 2024 14:47:14 +0000 https://www.vitishouse.com/?p=13743 The post Wine & Binge-Watch: “Under the Vines” & “Drops of God” appeared first on Vitis House.

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Wine & Binge-Watch: “Under the Vines” & “Drops of God”

Weekends are the perfect time to relax, pour a glass of wine, and enjoy a great series. Why not learn something new while you’re at it? If you’re looking for the ultimate way to unwind, grab your favorite wine and dive into two must-watch shows that blend entertainment with wine education!

Under The Vines on Prime Video

This delightful dramedy follows Daisy, an Aussie socialite, and Louis, a burnt-out London lawyer, as they inherit a vineyard in New Zealand. While they struggle to bring the vineyard back to life, they find happiness in unexpected places—among the vines. With stunning scenery, charming characters, and a heartwarming plot, this series is perfect for wine lovers dreaming of vineyard life.

 

under the vines

The best part? You’ll get a real taste of the vineyard world and its seasonal challenges.
Yes, it is a bit “girly”, almost like a “novela”, but it is good.

Drops of God on Apple TV

For those who want to dive deeper into the wine world, Drops of God takes you on a global wine adventure wrapped in a thrilling mystery. Camille must identify wines to inherit her father’s legendary collection, turning wine tasting into a high-stakes, gripping puzzle. The international wine settings are a visual treat, and the show’s wine knowledge is spot-on.

 

drops of gods

What I love most? Watching them decode specific grapes from subtle descriptions — it’s so true to how wine experts think!
Warning: It’s dangerously addictive. You’ll probably binge it in a week, and it’ll leave you craving to learn more about wine.

Both shows celebrate wine’s ability to bring people together and offer life lessons along the way. So sit back, sip, and get ready to explore the world of wine through these captivating stories.

If you are just a wine enthusiast and would like to learn more, join us in Raleigh, North Carolina or Online to get your WSET wine certification.

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Savoring Raleigh https://www.vitishouse.com/savoring-raleigh/ Mon, 02 Sep 2024 15:35:38 +0000 https://www.vitishouse.com/?p=13728 The post Savoring Raleigh appeared first on Vitis House.

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Food is a universal language, a flavorful thread that weaves us all together. In Raleigh, this culinary conversation is becoming more vibrant than ever. Our city has long been celebrated for its bar food and classic Southern cuisine, but now we’re stepping boldly into innovative concepts.

As a city on the rise, Raleigh’s culinary scene has grown—slowly but surely—creating an increasingly exciting and competitive landscape. Some of our restaurants now focus on delivering immersive experiences, while others emphasize outstanding food or ambiance. To top it off, the wine, sake, and cocktail menus are improving exceptionally.

Last week, we had the honor of attending the 2024 Raleigh Magazine Best Restaurants Awards. These spots represent the pinnacle of Raleigh’s culinary offerings, as selected by the magazine’s team. So, prepare your taste buds and dive into the flavors that make Raleigh a city worth savoring.

Terraza, Tamasha, Ajja, Hummingbird, Cucciolo Terraza, Brodetto, Sono, and East End Bistro—who made it this year, and which ones are still on your must-try list?

 

Raleigh’s Top 20

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Wine is a Passport in a Glass https://www.vitishouse.com/wine-is-a-passport-in-a-glass/ Thu, 15 Aug 2024 15:29:16 +0000 https://www.vitishouse.com/?p=13651 The post Wine is a Passport in a Glass appeared first on Vitis House.

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Alex Theo

Wine is a passport in a glass,” said Lyn Farmer, three-time James Beard award-winning writer and WSET wine educator. A twinkle in his eye and a smile on his face, he raised his glass of champagne to the room. It was only 9:00 in the morning, but that didn’t seem to deter anyone from raising their own glass in a toast, taking a sip of France’s famous sparkling wine. Lyn was in town for the weekend to facilitate the WSET Level 1 Award in Wines course at Vitis House, Raleigh’s premiere wine school founded by Chef Doreen Colondres. And he was absolutely correct—we were transported from North and South America to Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and everywhere between. Every glass of wine brought us to a new corner of the world, all in a single day.

Before we dive in, perhaps I should tell you a bit more about who I am, and how I wound up sipping a glass of champagne with Lyn at 9:00am. My name is Alex Theo, and I live in Raleigh, North Carolina but my family is from Cyprus. I am a classically trained cook, and a proud alum of the Culinary Institute of America. When I was at the CIA in Napa, California, I fell in love with wine. I realized a meal was only as good as the wine it was paired with, and a wine as good as its food. Like partners in a dance, they should complement one another, each one allowing the other to shine, highlighting its strengths. Having studied at one of the top culinary schools in the world, I felt like I had a solid knowledge of the food side of this dance—but how about the wine? Where would I begin?

After moving back to Raleigh, I had the joy of meeting Chef Doreen Colondres in a private wine class. I knew instantly I had a lot to learn from her—hearing her talk of her love for food and wine reignited the spark in my own heart. When I asked her how I could learn more about wine, she laughed and said with a smile, “Well, the Wine and Spirit Education Trust, of course!” That night I signed up for the WSET Level 1 at Vitis House, and a week later there I was, toasting Lyn and Doreen with my glass of champagne.

WSET is a globally recognized organization that provides education and qualifications in the field of wine, spirits, and other alcoholic beverages. WSET started in London, England, but has reached to every corner of the globe, including Raleigh, North Carolina. Vitis House provides the world-class wine education of the WSET, but with the flair of its founder. When you take a sip of a Tempranillo from Rioja, Doreen is there with a plate of chorizo for you to taste with the wine. With your sip of Cava, a bite of Jamón Consorcio Serrano. She teaches you firsthand how beautiful the dance between food and wine can be. It is truly a wine education unlike any other, which is the exact reason why I signed up for the Level 2 class the moment I walked out of the Level 1 classroom.

But perhaps most wonderful of all, you will not only earn an unparalleled education at Vitis House, you will also experience some of the warmest hospitality in Raleigh. When you walk through their doors, you are welcomed like family. If you are looking to expand your knowledge of wine, look no further than Vitis House.

————————————-

Alex successfully passed his L2 Award in Wines certification and recently published
his first book called Soup, available at Barnes and Noble.
Cheers to Alex!

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