Course Title: Master of French Wine Program

Course Code: MFW401

Course Schedule: Thursdays, October 12th to December 7th, from 7:30 to 9:30 PM EST. There is no class on Thanksgiving. 

Zoom Link for Online Access:  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81236797004?pwd=amcraFRzeitTU2l2UDgzTXVKMWNGdz09

Course Description: The Master of French Wine Program is an online educational journey that delves into the rich tapestry of French wines, their history, terroirs, and cultural significance. This comprehensive program equips students with an advanced understanding of French winemaking traditions and expertise in selecting and appreciating wines for various occasions. Students will explore the nuances of different French regions and varietals through a curated selection of wines.

Required Materials:

1. Wine Selections: Students must procure the following wines to engage with the program's content fully. We recommend utilizing a Coravin system to access wine from bottles without compromising integrity. 

   • Class #1, Loire Valley: Explore the scenic Loire Valley, renowned for its diverse white varietals. Delve into appellations while appreciating the historical backdrop of iconic castles.
     1. Muscadet Sevre Et Maine Sur Lie
     2. Sancerre or Pouilly-Fumé. 
     3. Montlouis, Savennieres, Vourvray, Anjou or Saumur Blanc. It must be Chenin Blanc with no residual sugar.
     4. Gamay. Preference is for Carbonic Maceration. 
     5. Pinot Noir.
     6. Chinon, Samur or Bourgueil. Must be Cabernet Franc.
     7. Bubbles! Recommended (but not mandatory)
   • Class #2, Champagne & The Alps: Unravel the mysteries of Champagne, the pinnacle of celebratory wines. Ascend to the breathtaking Alps and uncover the nuances of their reds and whites.
     • Champagne. It should be a traditional champagne blend of Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay. 
     • Alsatian Bubbles. Our preference is for a Pinot Noir-based rose. 
     • Bugey. This specific bottle of bubbly made from Gamay is worth seeking out. 
     • Alsatian Pinot Gris
     • Alsatian Pinot Noir.
     • Jura. Must be Savagnin Blanc. Our preference is for a bottle of Vin Jaune. 
   • Class #3, Burgundy & Beaujolais: Immerse yourself in the world of Burgundy’s Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Transition to the vibrant Gamay wines of Beaujolais in this exploration of the region’s terroir.
     • Aligote. 
     • Chardonnay. It should be from an appellation within Macon. 
     • Chardonnay. From Chablis or Petit-Chablis
     • Gamay from Beaujolais
     • Pinot Noir from Cote De Beaune
     • Pinot Noir from Cote De Nuits. We recommend Gevrey Chambertin or Fixin for this flight. Expect to spend $50-$100 for this wine. 
   • Class #4, Rhone Valley: Journey through the southern Rhone Valley, discovering the triumvirate of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre. Encounter the allure of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and its counterparts.
     • Southern Rhone White Blend. It should have at least 20% Grenache Blanc in the blend. 
     • Northern Rhone Viognier. 
     • Southern Rhone Rose. It is preferred this wine is sourced from Tavel. 
     • Southern Rhone Red#1. A Cote du Rhone with at least 60% Grenache in the blend. 
     • Southern Rhone Red#2. Either Gigondas or Chateneuf du Pape. 
     • Northern Rhone Syrah. Either Crozes-Hermitage or St. Joseph is recommended. 
   • Class #5, Provence & Corsica: Bask in the Mediterranean sunshine as you explore the rosés of Provence and the distinctive wines of Corsica. Unearth the essence of these coastal regions.
     • Corsican White. It should have at least some Vermentino in the blend. 
     • Corsican Rose. Should have at least some Niellucciu in the blend. 
     • Corsican Red. It should be a Sciaccarellu-based wine.
     • Provence White. Should have at least some Vermentio in the blend
     • Provence Rose. Should have Grenache in the mix. 
     • Bandol Red. 
   • Class #6, Languedoc-Roussillon: Embark on a discovery of Languedoc-Roussillon’s innovation and character. Encounter bold reds and daring blends that challenge convention.
     • Limoux. Bubbles! It should be either Chardonnay or a Chardonnay blend. 
     • White. It should be at least 30% Grenache Blanc
     • Rose. Should have Grenache in the mix. 
     • Corbieres Rouge
     • Minervois Rouge 
     • Cotes du Roussillon Villages
   • Class #7, Southwest France: Traverse the lesser-explored charm of Southwest France, where indigenous varietals and a rich cultural tapestry create a captivating wine narrative.
     • Cahors
     • Madiran
     • Fronton. Preferably having Negrette in the mix or as a single varietal. 
     • Irouleguy (Red)
     • Gaillac (Red). Preferably having Fer Servadou in the mix or as a single varietal. 
   • Class #8, Bordeaux: Culminate your journey in Bordeaux, uncovering the mastery of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot blends. Decipher the secrets behind classified growths and the art of blending.
     • Medoc
       • Northern Medoc
       • Southern Medoc
     • Graves
       • Northern Graves White. It should be sourced from Pessac Leognan.
       • Southern Graves White This is a dessert wine
     • Right Bank
       • Northern Right Bank
       • Southern Right Bank

2. Coravin System: The Coravin system is highly recommended for accessing wines without the need to uncork the bottles. This innovative tool preserves the wine's freshness, allowing for repeated tastings and ensuring that wines remain suitable for both personal enjoyment and academic purposes.

Course Requirements:

1. Wine Selection and Grading:

   • Students must upload clear photographs of the wines they will be using for each class. This visual documentation is essential for assessment purposes.
   • Wine selections will be graded based on alignment with the program's requirements and the authenticity of the chosen wines.
   • Students are encouraged to source wines from reputable vendors with a diverse selection of French wines. While local wine shops are permissible, major chain wine stores are discouraged due to concerns about product authenticity.

2. Participation in Online Modules:

   • Attend and Engage actively with the online learning modules, which cover a range of topics from the history of French winemaking to terroir-driven production.
   • Participate in forum discussions, share insights, and collaborate with fellow students.

Recommended Wine Vendors: While the program does not endorse specific wine vendors, the following platforms offer a wide selection of French wines and deliver to various locations across the USA:

• Saratoga Wine
• Wine.com
• Locally-owned Wine Shops

Grading:

• Wine Selections: 25%
• Participation in Online Modules: 25%
• Final Project: 50%

Note: This syllabus is subject to change at the instructor's discretion. Students are advised to review the syllabus regularly for updates and clarifications.