Ready to dive into the fascinating world of wine tasting? Our class is designed just for you – whether you’re a curious novice or an aspiring enthusiast looking to refine your sensory skills.

Embark on a sensory journey where you’ll delve into the essence of wine grapes, production methods, and the diverse array of aromas and flavors that tantalize the palate across the globe. Our goal? To cultivate your own aromatic “memory bank” through hands-on exploration of wine aromas.

No more wine-tasting nerves here! We’ll make the process easy to understand, guiding you through in a laid-back atmosphere.

In just 90 minutes, you’ll:

• Learn the techniques to enhance your sense of smell and taste.
• Immerse yourself into over 20+ common descriptors, ranging from fruity, floral, and the intriguing realm of secondary and tertiary aromas and flavors.
• Uncover the secrets behind wine aromas and their unique characteristics.
• Sample 5-7 diverse wines, each showcasing different styles and flavors.
• Gain the confidence to express your wine tasting notes, preferences and experiences.

Join us for a journey of discovery! Whether you’re just starting out or aiming for wine certifications like WSET, WSG, or CMS, this wine sensory class is your ticket to unlocking the wonderful world of wine.

Cheers to new beginnings!

*ALL CLASS SALES ARE FINAL. All food and non-food ingredients will be personal to you and your seating area and will be handled with gloves. We follow all safety requirements set by the CDC and the NC Government. If for any reason, VH needs to cancel or reschedule a class, we will give you a full refund.

Class Details

Time: 6:30pm–8:00pm
Venue: The Loading Dock – (Parking available but Uber/Lyft is recommended)
Directions: 1053 E Whitaker Mill Rd, Raleigh, NC 27604, USA

Classes Changes/Cancellations/Refunds

ALL CLASS SALES ARE FINAL. You can transfer your spot to someone else (at no cost). Please send us an email with the name of the person attending on your behalf.  Classes are subject to cancellation due to government safety measurements, severe weather conditions or low attendance. Check here for more details on Vitis House policies and cancellations or contact us at cheers@vitishouse.com.

Click here to read our Policies and Procedures

The post Sensory 101 appeared first on Vitis House.

Delicate in the vineyard, finicky in the cellar—Pinot Noir is a heartbreaker. Yet when it’s done right, it produces some of the most beautiful and expressive wines in the world. It delivers complexity, elegance, perfume, and emotion like few other grapes can. That’s why winemakers fall for it—only to be crushed again and again by its demands.

This class is your ticket to exploring Pinot’s personality—its elegance, nuance, and undeniable charm—while uncovering why it tastes so different from Burgundy to Oregon, how oak or stainless steel shapes its style, and how climate, altitude, and soil leave their signature in every sip. From silky to savory, delicate to daring, you’ll discover just how expressive—and unpredictable—this heartbreak grape can be.

This is an advanced tasting using the WSET Level 3 SAT (Systematic Approach to Tasting), designed to challenge your palate, sharpen your descriptors, and deepen your analytical skills. Whether you’re preparing for certification or simply want to taste Pinot Noir like a pro, this session will expand your appreciation of the world’s most iconic white wine.

Class Details

Time: 6:30pm–8:00pm
Venue: The Loading Dock – (Parking available but Uber/Lyft is recommended)
Directions: 1053 E Whitaker Mill Rd, Raleigh, NC 27604, USA

Classes Changes/Cancellations/Refunds

ALL CLASS SALES ARE FINAL. You can transfer your spot to someone else (at no cost). Please send us an email with the name of the person attending on your behalf.  Classes are subject to cancellation due to government safety measurements, severe weather conditions or low attendance. Check here for more details on Vitis House policies and cancellations or contact us at cheers@vitishouse.com.

Click here to read our Policies and Procedures

The post Passport to Pinot Noir appeared first on Vitis House.

From The Art Inside the Bottle, we bring a new chapter—one that journeys back to the ancient roots of wine itself. In the pantheon of Greco-Roman mythology, wine was the lifeblood of celebration, prophecy, and divine madness. In ancient Greece and Rome, gods didn’t just watch over vineyards—they drank from them.

In this immersive experience, we’ll explore how mythology, sculpture, and ritual shaped the world of wine. We’ll uncover Dionysus and Bacchus through marble and myth, and trace how vessels such as amphora, ceramic, concrete, and glassembodied the artistic ideals of their time. Each material tells a different story of flavor, evolution, and belief—connecting the ancient world to the glasses we raise today.

You’ll taste five wines from Greece, Italy, Georgia, and Spain, each paired with one of five courses curated by the Catering Works Executive Chef, bringing these ancient stories to life through art, food, and wine.

Join NCMA Curator, the Vitis House team, and Catering Works Executive Chef for a captivating collaboration that celebrates the beauty of wine across eras—one sip at a time.

Event Details

Date: January 30, 2026
Start time: 6:30 p.m.
End time: 9:00 p.m.
Location: North Carolina Museum of Art (View the map)

The post A Portrait of Wine: From Amphora to Glass appeared first on Vitis House.

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Spain is one of the most delicious destinations in the world. The wine, the olive oil, the jamón, their traditions and culture – they all highlight amazing, colorful Spain, and contribute to making Spain one of the most fun countries in the world. Chef Doreen Colondres spent two years in this magnificent country and it is indeed one of her favorite food and wine regions in the world. 

During this class you will explore the unique Spanish grape varieties used to produce these amazing wines, their most prestigious wine regions and what to eat if you visit them.  Learn the different styles of wines, regulations and their labels so you can understand better what you are buying.

Find out the real story behind the tapas tradition and how to cook and pair a few of them, learn about the Mediterranean food culture, taste some Iberico and learn about extra virgin olive oil, the two most famous Spanish gems.  And of course, taste outstanding wines from Galicia, Catalunya, Castilla y Leon, Rioja, Andalucía, among others.

Join us for a one of a kind wine tasting class! 

Salud!

*ALL CLASS SALES ARE FINAL. All food and non-food ingredients will be personal to you and your seating area and will be handled with gloves. We follow all safety requirements set by the CDC and the NC Government. If for any reason, VH needs to cancel or reschedule a class, we will give you a full refund.

Class Details

Time: 6:30pm–8:00pm
Venue: The Loading Dock – (Parking available but Uber/Lyft is recommended)
Directions: 1053 E Whitaker Mill Rd, Raleigh, NC 27604, USA

Classes Changes/Cancellations/Refunds

ALL CLASS SALES ARE FINAL. You can transfer your spot to someone else (at no cost). Please send us an email with the name of the person attending on your behalf.  Classes are subject to cancellation due to government safety measurements, severe weather conditions or low attendance. Check here for more details on Vitis House policies and cancellations or contact us at cheers@vitishouse.com.

Click here to read our Policies and Procedures

The post Ole Wines & Tapas appeared first on Vitis House.

Embark on a journey to the heart of Italy, where every sip and every bite is infused with passion and history. Italy, renowned for its enchanting landscapes, rich history, and captivating culture, also boasts a culinary tradition that ignites the senses and stirs the soul.

In this exclusive Italian wine and food class, immerse yourself in the allure of Italian gastronomy as we uncover the secrets behind the creation of Italy’s most romantic wines. Delve into the world of unique Italian grape varieties, exploring their diverse styles, renowned labels, and the perfect pairings to elevate your dining experience to new heights.  Savor the essence of Italy as you sample an exquisite selection of wines sourced from the picturesque regions of Piemonte, Veneto, Tuscany, Puglia, and Sicilia. Each sip will transport you to the sun-kissed vineyards and rolling hills of Italy, evoking the passion and tradition of generations of winemakers.

But that’s not all – indulge in the traditional Italian delicacies meticulously curated to complement our wine tasting.  Learn about the authentic Prosciutto Di Parma PDO, Parmigiano Reggiano PDO, and have a taste of a Bolognese Pasta garnish with love to celebrate Italian food and wine.

Sign up now to this Italian wine class and experience this gastronomic journey – where every moment is infused with amore!

Educator: Chef Doreen Colondres

Saluti!

*ALL CLASS SALES ARE FINAL.
We follow all safety requirements set by the CDC and the NC Government.
If for any reason, VH needs to cancel or reschedule a class, we will give you a full refund.

Class Details

Time: 6:30pm–8:00pm
Venue: The Loading Dock – (Parking available but Uber/Lyft is recommended)
Directions: 1053 E Whitaker Mill Rd, Raleigh, NC 27604, USA

Classes Changes/Cancellations/Refunds

ALL CLASS SALES ARE FINAL. You can transfer your spot to someone else (at no cost). Please send us an email with the name of the person attending on your behalf.

ALL CLASS SALES ARE FINAL. You can transfer your spot to someone else (at no cost). Please send us an email with the name of the person attending on your behalf.  Classes are subject to cancellation due to government safety measurements, severe weather conditions or low attendance. Check here for more details on Vitis House policies and cancellations or contact us at cheers@vitishouse.com.

Click here to read our Policies

The post Romantic Reds appeared first on Vitis House.

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DAY 2 – A Journey Through Rioja’s Soul

After a leisurely breakfast, we’ll head deep into the soul of Rioja, where medieval villages and world-class wines meet dramatic landscapes. Our day begins with a visit to a family-run bodega, where tradition and innovation blend in every glass. From there, we’ll continue to two more exceptional wineries—each offering a distinct expression of the region’s terroir and winemaking heritage. Between tastings, stroll through cobblestone streets, sip wines born from centuries-old vines, and enjoy a seasonal lunch that celebrates the flavors of the land.

As the sun begins to set, we’ll journey toward our next destination—a hidden gem tucked into the heart of Rioja Alta. With architectural elegance, whispers of old-world romance, and the quiet prestige of Michelin recognition, this luxurious retreat promises a night of indulgence and magic. Let yourself be seduced by its charm.

DAY 3 – Hidden Gems & Tapas After Sunset

Our Rioja adventure continues with a deeper dive into the diversity of the region’s three distinct winemaking zones. Today’s visits will reveal the contrasts and connections between tradition and innovation, terroir and technique.

Lunch will be a truly special moment. We’ll share a table with the owners of one of the region’s most coveted boutique wineries—a hidden gem whose limited-production wines are prized by collectors around the world. Intimate, authentic, and unforgettable.

As the day winds down, we’ll make our way to Logroño, the lively capital of La Rioja and a true mecca for tapas lovers. Like the locals do, we’ll head out de copas to explore the iconic Calle Laurel, where every doorway leads to another bite, another glass, and another reason to fall in love with the rhythm of Spanish life.

DAY 5 – Salt & Soul

Our first stop is a historic winery that’s been making wine since 1820. Think old barrels, the scent of wood, bottles clinking, and laughter echoing through the cellar. Affectionately known as “Criquet,” this winery is a true symbol of joy, pride, and Basque identity.

After lunch, we’ll slow down and reconnect with nature through a guided forest bathing experience among vineyards and native trees—an immersive journey designed to awaken your senses and restore your well-being. Breathe, taste, listen, and feel one of the most spectacular views of the Cantabrian Sea around you as you sip local wines paired with regional flavors.

Explore the vibrant pintxo culture of San Sebastián, linger in the sea breeze with a glass of Txakoli, or let the city’s rhythm guide you to your next unforgettable bite. Whether you venture out or join an optional shared experience, the night is yours to savor.

DAY 6 – San Sebastián

Today is yours—unstructured, unhurried, and unforgettable. Wake up in a refined boutique hotel tucked just steps from the sea, where understated luxury, panoramic rooftop views, and a serene pool invite you to slow down and savor the moment. Whether you spend the day exploring the Old Town, lounging by the beach, indulging in pintxos, or simply doing nothing at all, San Sebastián offers the perfect backdrop for reflection, discovery, and quiet indulgence—at your own pace.

DAY 7 – San Sebastian-Bilbao

It is time to say good bye or hasta pronto! We’ll wrap up the trip in Bilbao, home of the iconic Guggenheim Museum.  You should plan the rest of your trip or your return to Madrid or Barcelona, either via train, plane or car. We are happy to share recommendations.

In other words, This is the perfect week to indulge yourself with traditional food, wine, culture, and stunning landscapes. The final itinerary will be shared via email two months before departure date.

Price/Deposit

$5,390 Total p/person double occupancy
$1,000 Deposit p/p
$1,000 deposit is needed to secure your spot. Unfortunately, this trip is designed for 2 guests per room only. If you have a question, contact us. Deposits are non-refundable. Balance is due 90 days before the trip. No cancellations allowed.

Important Notes

• Not included: Air tickets, travel insurance (health, flight cancellations), tips, additional food and alcoholic beverages other than the ones included on the agenda and of course, expenses during your free time.
• We strongly recommend not to fly via London to avoid taxes and delays.
• You can bring your wine luggage or you can ship wines from Spain using Cargo Wine for an additional cost. We can assist you with that.

Detailed itinerary, health, safety & dietary restrictions

We will share a questionnaire for you to fill out in advance. We want to learn about any special needs (allergies or food intolerances) prior the trip. You will receive your official/detailed itinerary via email, in addition to several documents to be signed before departure date.  In case you are planning to extend your stay in Spain, we can assist you with recommendations from our local tour operators.

Others

The itinerary could suffer minor changes. We will keep a few activities out of the agenda as a surprise.  This trip could be subject to changes caused by unexpected issues from our providers, weather conditions, road closures or safety issues.  Do you have any question? Send us an email to cheers@vitishouse.com.

The post Rioja & Txakoli appeared first on Vitis House.

DAY 2 – Peñafiel & Aranda del Duero

Wake up! After breakfast, we are driving to the Golden Mile. Our first stop is an awarded winery led by one of Spain’s most prestigious winemakers. You’ll follow the same path the grapes take during harvest as we explore the five levels of their gravity-led winery, ending with a tasting of their collector gems. Next, we’ll visit one of the Grandes Pagos de España, located just outside the DO Ribera del Duero. We’ll tour the spectacular estate in a private 4×4, visiting vineyards, the Duero River, pine and acorn forests, and exploring the flora and fauna before a guided tasting of their finest collector wines in the estate’s stunning tasting room.

Then we’ll head to the town of Traspinedo, where a local chef will prepare a lunch impossible to recreate outside the region—dessert details will remain a sweet surprise.

If you still have room for more, we’ll drive to Aranda del Duero to visit a 15th-century underground cellar for an unforgettable tasting with an award-winning winemaker, followed by dinner at one of Spain’s top asadores. You’ll end the night hugging the female chef behind this incredible hidden gem.

DAY 3 – Sardón del Duero & Soria

After breakfast, we will drive to another Grandes Pagos de España, located on the “Golden Mile,” to visit a unique winery where the extraordinary conditions capture the landscape in every bottle. During a tour of the estate, you’ll explore the history of each project, its vineyards, and winemaking processes, followed by a magical gastronomic experience at their Michelin-starred restaurant paired with a superb tasting from vineyards across Spain.

After that, we’ll stop for a fun vino en porrón class in Peñaranda, Peñafiel, or at the Monastery of Santa María de La Vid—perfect for photos and plenty of laughs!

Before heading back, we’ll explore a winery at nearly 3,300 feet above sea level in Soria, a region considered an ethnographic jewel of viticulture. Here, you’ll find pre-phylloxera vines of a unique ancestral Tinto Fino (Tempranillo) clone preserved for centuries. After a tasting paired with one of Spain’s most protected cheeses, we’ll return to the hotel.

If you can allow yourself another bite, unwind at the hotel and enjoy a tapas night on your own—naturally with a glass of local wine or beer.

DAY 5 – Segovia & Madrid

Enjoy a free morning to explore a stunning UNESCO site. Visit the iconic Romanesque aqueduct, a former royal palace, or a Gothic cathedral—or simply go shopping and capture some beautiful photos. At noon, we’ll head back to Madrid, but first, we’re stopping in a small village to taste a traditional fall dish from the region. This private lunch will be lovingly prepared by a wonderful family who has been making the dish for generations in their 300+ year-old home.

Then we are taking you to the hotel in Madrid. Free time in Madrid, with maybe a farewell happy hour in one of the top awarded bars in the world by the World’s 50th Best.

DAY 6 – Madrid

Free morning in Madrid. You should schedule your returning trip for this afternoon, unless you prefer to enjoy a Saturday in Madrid and depart on Sunday (strongly recommended).

The perfect week to indulge yourself with traditional food, wine, culture, and stunning landscapes. The final itinerary will be shared via email.

Price/Deposit

2026 – $5,390.00 p/p double occupancy ($750.00 add supplement p/p single occupancy)
$1,000 deposit is needed to secure your spot. Unfortunately, this trip is designed for 2 guests per room only. If you have a question, contact us. Deposits are non-refundable. Balance is due 90 days before the trip. No cancellations allowed.

Important Notes

• Not included: Air tickets, travel insurance (health, flight cancellations), tips, additional food and alcoholic beverages other than the ones included on the agenda and of course, expenses during your free time.
• We strongly recommend not to fly via London to avoid taxes and delays.
• You can bring your wine luggage or you can ship wines from Spain using Cargo Wine for an additional cost. We can assist you with that.

Detailed itinerary, health, safety & dietary restrictions

We will share a questionnaire for you to fill out in advance. We want to learn about any special needs (allergies or food intolerances) prior the trip. You will receive your official/detailed itinerary via email, in addition to several documents to be signed before departure date.  In case you are planning to extend your stay in Spain, we can assist you with recommendations from our local tour operators.

Others

The itinerary could suffer minor changes. We will keep a few activities out of the agenda as a surprise. This trip could be subject to changes caused by unexpected issues from our providers, weather conditions, road closures or safety issues. Do you have any question? Send us an email to cheers@vitishouse.com.

See you in Spain!

The post Taste Ribera & Rueda Like a Local appeared first on Vitis House.

Travel along the sparkling shores of Southern Europe—no passport required. In this immersive tasting class, we’ll dive into the coastal wines of five iconic regions: Portugal, Croatia, Spain, Italy, and Greece. These wines capture the spirit of the Mediterranean: sun-kissed freshness, bright acidity, and a deep connection to land and sea.

But it’s not all sunshine and sea views—these wines are forged by nature’s challenges. Think rocky, wind-swept islands, sunbaked volcanic soils, and steep cliffside vineyards. The result? Bold, expressive wines born from resilience, crafted by winemakers who coax beauty from adversity.

You’ll enjoy a curated flight of wines showcasing native grapes and diverse coastal styles—from zesty Portuguese whites and minerally island-grown Assyrtiko to savory reds from Spain and hidden gems from the Dalmatian coast. To elevate the tasting, we’ll pair each pour with Mediterranean bites inspired by the region—flavorful, seasonal pairings that bring the coast to your palate.

Whether you’re dreaming of your next Mediterranean escape or love discovering wines with a sense of place and story, this class offers a flavorful voyage—one sip (and bite) at a time.

*ALL CLASS SALES ARE FINAL. We follow all safety requirements set by the CDC and the NC Government. If for any reason, VH needs to cancel or reschedule a class, we will give you a full refund.

Class Details

Time: 6:30pm–8:00pm
Venue: The Loading Dock – (Parking available but Uber/Lyft is recommended)
Directions: 1053 E Whitaker Mill Rd, Raleigh, NC 27604, USA

Classes Changes/Cancellations/Refunds

ALL CLASS SALES ARE FINAL. You can transfer your spot to someone else (at no cost). Please send us an email with the name of the person attending on your behalf.  Classes are subject to cancellation due to government safety measurements, severe weather conditions or low attendance. Check here for more details on Vitis House policies and cancellations or contact us at cheers@vitishouse.com.

Click here to read our Policies and Procedures

The post Sips of the Sea appeared first on Vitis House.