Wine appreciation courses

February begins and ends with a bang with Champagne and sparkling tastings at both Seagars at Oxford and on board a yacht in Lyttelton. The latter is part of the Lyttelton Summer Festival, at which I’ll also be hosting a tasting of Banks Peninsula wines and running another of my popular beginners wine courses.

For further information phone 03 328 8846, email jo@adventuresinwine.co.nz, or go to the Contact page.


Fantastic Fizz at Freemans, London Street, Lyttelton

Time: 7pm   Cost: $55


Find out what’s behind the best sparkling wines and try some of New Zealand’s finest, plus a selection of impressive Champagnes. An unmissable class for fans of fizz at an extremely affordable price given the quality of the wines offered for tasting.

Come early an enjoy a pre-tasting meal at Seagars, which is open that evening. Or snack on the tasty platter provided by Seagars that's provided with the tasting.

Course date: Thursday 11th February


A taste of the Banks Peninsula - The Penthouse, Shadbolt House, Norwich Quay, Lyttelton

Time: 7pm    Cost $25



Taste a great selection of Banks Peninsula wines while taking in awesome views of the peninsula from the penthouse of Shadbolt House. A fun and informal tutored tasting for anyone interested in learning more about the region’s exciting wines and trying some of its best examples in situ.

Course date: Saturday 20th February


Beginners guide to wine at Freemans,               London Street, Lyttelton

Time: 7pm    Cost $45


Go from beginner to wine buff in one accessible and entertaining session that guides you through the basics of wine appreciation - from how to taste wine to key grape varieties and regions. Designed to l help you get more from your glass and a better understanding of your own tastes in wine, it includes a tasting of some great wines accompanied by a delicious platter from Freemans.

                                                                       Course date: Tuesday 23rd February


Champagne Cruise on board the yacht Megisti, Lyttelton Harbour

Time: 7-9pm    Cost $125


Experience the ultimate luxury of tasting a selection of fabulous Champagnes and top New Zealand sparkling wines on board a yacht cruising round Lyttelton Harbour, while Jo talks you through the wines and sheds light on what's behind the finest fizz. Bubbles by Moët Hennessy.

                                                                      Course date: Saturday 27th February