Different Oaks For Different Folks @ Sorriso in Brookline Village

Join this immersive wine tasting class that delves into the fascinating world of oak and its essential role in winemaking. In this class, you'll explore how winemakers use oak barrels to shape the flavor, aroma, and texture of wine.

We will taste and learn the types of oak used in the winemaking process, focusing on the characteristics of American, French, and other varieties of oak. Learn how oak barrels impart unique flavors—such as vanilla, spice, smoke, and toast—and how they influence a wine’s texture and tannin structure.

You’ll taste different styles of barrel-aged wines, from bold reds to creamy whites, and understand what makes each style distinct. Whether it's the subtle nuances of lightly oaked wines or the rich complexity of those fermented in new oak barrels, this class will help you appreciate the craftsmanship behind oak-aged wines and how they represent the traditions of major winemaking regions.

Perfect for wine lovers who are curious about how oak can elevate a wine’s profile, this class will deepen your knowledge and sharpen your palate as we explore the rich history and modern techniques of oak aging.

We will have bread, olives, and cheeses to accompany our tasting journey. This class is limited to only 12 students, so sign up now!

WHO SHOULD ATTEND This is a Level 1 survey course for beginners and enthusiasts. It assumes some exposure to wine but little or no formal wine knowledge. This program is appropriate for both consumers and professionals in all wine, food, hospitality and service industries.

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN Students will learn technical wine tasting, major types of oak used in wine making, and the fundamentals of how barrel treatment influences wine style. The emphasis is on providing an overview of wood's role in wine making, plus an introduction to wine and food pairing concepts.

PLEASE NOTE Wine & food menus are subject to change based on availability, inspiration, and whimsy!

WINE MENU (tentative) Fumé Blanc (barrel aged Sauvignon Blanc) | Barrel- fermented California Chadonnay | Mâcon-Villages Chardonnay (French Chard aged in neutral oak barrels) | Rioja Crianza (minimum 1 year in oak) versus Rioja Gran Reserva (minimum 2 years in oak) | Bourbon barrel aged California red

REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS Guests & students must be at least 21.

SPECIAL OFFER The day of your class, you get 10% off your purchase at Sorriso! Just show your Boston Wine School ticket to get your discount, which is good only on the day of your class.

JONATHON ALSOP is founder & executive director of the Boston Wine School, author of The Wine Lover’s Devotional and , and a commentator for National Public Radio on WGBH | Boston Public Radio and Under The Radar.

He began writing about wine, food and travel in 1988 and emerged as a wine expert through his syndicated wine column. He has contributed numerous articles to the Associated Press, Frequent Flyer Magazine, La Vie Claire, Beverage Business Magazine, Mobil Travel Guides, Fodor’s Travel Guides, Boston Globe, and many others.

Jonathon founded the Boston Wine School in 2000 where he teaches wine and food classes in a dedicated 100% snob-free zone. His new book Wine Life: A Collection Of Verses will be published in 2025.

SORRISO MARKET | sorrisomarket.com | 27 Harvard Street, Brookline Village MA 02445

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Sorriso Market, 27 Harvard Street, Brookline, United States