old world wine regions - completed

After 16 weeks of classes, I'm finally finished with Old World Wine Regions. It was probably the toughest course in the entire program. It covers so many regions in one semester - it's just not possible to know everything about such an important area in wine.

I was worried that work and the holidays would make it tough for me to study. But I started early and took a day or two off to make sure I had enough time to prepare. It was so worth it because the written test was good. The blind tasting component always makes me nervous because I don't practice enough so I always wonder whether I am going to fail that portion. When I do a blind tasting, I always doubt myself and I change my answer. The original answer is usually right but because I doubt myself, I end up getting it wrong.

For the final exam, I reminded myself that I need to believe in my ability. This time, it worked. I was able to identify all four wines - an Albariño from Vinho Verde, a valpolicella from Veneto, a Nebbiolo from Piemonte, and a Tempranillo from Rioja. I was able to figure it out based on everything I learned about viticulture and vinification.

I'm happy to end the course on a high note. It is the last of the theoretical wine courses. Next up is Food & Wine Pairing and a Beer Course. Once those courses are done, it's Advanced Sommelier.

I'm almost there .. :)