Testarossa University
Testarossa Winery strives to keep things fresh when it comes to satisfying your thirst for wine knowledge. Thus the institution of Testarossa University, our year-round series of wine classes taught by our team of knowledgeable wine educators. Curriculum topics range from the basics of wine tasting to winemaking, including the science behind winemaking, deep dives into the terroir of different appellations and vineyards, vertical and horizontal tastings, clonal comparisons and more!
Wine Club member discounts apply. Advanced reservations required.
Wine Basics
Testarossa University class, Learn the basics of enjoying California’s favorite beverage. We’ll discuss how to swirl, smell, taste and describe wine, the history of our winery, the differences between varietals and places of origin, and what contributes to it’s wonderful aromas and flavors. Don’t be intimidated – there’s no experience necessary! Please provide proof of vaccination upon arrival.
Tondre Grapefield Vertical!
One of Testarossa’s favorite vineyards, Tondre Grapefield, sits right in the heart of the Santa Lucia Highlands. Tondre Grapefield wines are expressive with wonderful textures. This vineyard is farmed by one of favorite grower families, Joe and Penny Alarid. Their farming practices produce wonderful grapes that make beautiful wines! Join us as we taste through a vertical of Tondre Grapefield Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs!
Wine and Food Pairing Lab
Join us for this fun and interactive class where we will learn key food and wine pairing principles and tips. We will taste through some food items and sauces to help us understand the art of food and wine pairing. One of our most popular and interactive classes!
Pinot Noir Around the World
Pinot Noir is one of the most famous red grape varietals in the world. Pinot Noir is temperamental, fickle, and very sensitive to the terrior. But, it is also very compelling, seductive and elegant. Join us as take a tour around the world tasting different expressions of Pinot Noir! This is one of our most popular classes!
Welcome to the SLO Coast AVA!
Welcome to California’s newest AVA – San Luis Obispo Coast or SLO Coast! SLO Coast AVA includes the Arroyo Grande Valley and Edna Valley. We will discuss what an AVA (American Viticultural Area) is, how do certain areas get to be an AVA. While discussing all about this wonderful wine growing area we will be tasting some fabulous wines from the SLO Coast. Join us in welcoming the new SLO Coast AVA!
High Altitude and Low Altitude Wines
In this class we will discuss what elevation/altitude vineyard location means to winemaking. What is the difference between mountain and hillside vineyards and valley floor vineyards? Can you taste the difference? Do you prefer one style over the other? This class will be a fun tasting through these wine growing regions. Great for all levels of wine knowledge!
Vineyard Soils
It is said the great winemaking starts in the vineyard. How do the soils in a vineyard affect winemaking? There are so many different soils in the vineyards around the world. We will learn all about limestone, schist, clay, and volcanic soils, to name a few. And we will be tasting wines made from grapes grown in these soils. This will be a fun, educational class for everyone!
The Pinot Family
Pinot is a very old grape variety. This family includes Pinot Noir, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Meunier. Pinot Noir is thought to be the original Pinot in this family. These grapes can be made into white wine, red wine, rose wine, and sparkling wine! In this class will discuss all about this family of grapes and where the best expressions of these grapes are grown. And, of course, taste some wonderful examples of the Pinot family of grapes!