Is Champagne the best sparkling wine in the world? Taste and evaluate sparkling wines from other French regions, from Europe, Australia and New Zealand and decide whether any can match Champagne. Participants will also consider the sparkling winemaking methods involved. At least 9 wines will be tasted and no previous experience required. Please remember to not drink and drive.

World Sparkling Challenge

Course Description

Is Champagne truly the world’s finest sparkling wine? In this lively and engaging tasting session, you’ll have the chance to decide for yourself. 

Explore a range of sparkling wines from Champagne alongside top examples from other French regions, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. With each pour, you’ll compare styles, flavours, and quality – discovering what sets Champagne apart and whether any rivals come close.

Alongside the tasting, you’ll gain insight into the different sparkling winemaking methods, including traditional and modern techniques used across the globe. 

Guided by an experienced tutor, you’ll also learn a simple way to evaluate sparkling wines and assess value for money. 

Whether you're a sparkling wine lover or simply curious to explore beyond the bubbles, this course offers a fun and informative way to expand your palate.

Over the course of three hours, you’ll taste three wines per hour – equivalent to one standard drink per hour. While this is generally considered a moderate pace, it’s important to understand that everyone metabolises alcohol differently, and individual tolerance levels can vary. 

Please note that participants must be aged 18 or over to attend this course.

Course Structure

The session begins with a warm welcome and a brief introduction to your tutor, along with an overview of what to expect during the course. From there, you'll be guided through key information about the featured wine, including signature styles, and production methods.

Your tutor will then demonstrate a simple yet effective method for evaluating wine, which you’ll use throughout the class. Working individually or in small groups, you’ll taste a variety of wines, apply the evaluation method, and share your observations in open discussions.

To support your learning, you’ll receive a concise set of notes summarising the key concepts covered. There will be plenty of time for questions and conversation throughout the session. 

Course Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Broaden their knowledge and appreciation of Champagne and sparkling wine
• Apply a basic method for evaluating wines
• Use appropriate wine vocabulary to describe and discuss wines
• Make more informed decisions about wine purchases and assess value for money
• Enjoy a structured and engaging approach to learning about wine.

Your Tutor is David Crossman

David Crossman BA, Grad Dip Ed, Cert IV WTA has been teaching at WEA since 1994. 

David has a background in secondary school teaching, with a long-term interest in wine. While spending six months in France experiencing their wine culture, he developed an even greater enthusiasm. He was even invited to judge French wine at the Concours Agricole de Paris!

Since returning to Australia David has been involved in secondary education, adult education and wine activities. He has completed an Advanced Wine Studies course at TAFE, and has experience in wine sales as a wholesaler and retailer. He also has experience as both a teacher and administrator in adult education, and has taught the TAFE competency ‘Wine Evaluation’.

David truly believes that wine is made to be enjoyed, so his wine courses are designed to be enjoyable too.