Do I have to attend all sessions or can I pick and choose?

You are welcome to attend any number of sessions; each week focuses on a different French wine region, so you can join based on your interests or schedule.

Is food included in the price?

Food is not included but you have the option to purchase a sommelier-selected paired dish from La Tourelle during the event.

What is the minimum age to participate?

Participants must be 21 years or older to attend this wine tasting course.

Can I purchase wines tasted during the course?

Yes, attendees have the option to bring home some of the wines sampled that evening, available for purchase through La Tourelle.

Where exactly is the class held at La Tourelle?

Classes are held downstairs in the La Tourelle Hotel and Spa’s event space—please arrive early to find your seat.

Is prior wine knowledge necessary?

No prior experience is required; the course is designed to demystify French wines for beginners and enthusiasts alike.

Discover French Wine Secrets in Ithaca: Demystifying French Wine Course at La Tourelle | Events | Food Tour

Set in the heart of Ithaca, New York, the Ithaca Community Wine Course offers a refined gateway into the intricate world of French wine. Hosted at the elegant La Tourelle Hotel and Spa, this weekly series is led by certified sommelier Dr. Laura Winter Falk, who guides participants through France's renowned wine regions with expertise and approachable passion. Perfectly blending education with sensory delight, this course is designed to transform your Thursdays into an immersive exploration of taste, history, and culture. Ithaca, known for its dramatic gorges and vibrant local arts scene, provides a refreshing backdrop for this deep dive into French viniculture. The course breaks down the mystique surrounding French wine, making it accessible to anyone eager to confidently navigate wine shops and restaurant menus. Each session spotlights one of the major French wine appellations—ranging from Bordeaux’s bold reds to the delicate whites of the Loire Valley—uncovering the unique grape varieties, terroirs, and production methods that define these world-class regions. What sets this experience apart is its blend of rigorous study and convivial tasting. Participants savor a flight of 4 to 6 sommelier-selected French wines, meticulously curated to showcase both classic expressions and hidden gems. Dr. Falk’s engaging commentary covers structural and aromatic elements, empowering guests to discern subtle nuances and broad stylistic trends. Additionally, a thoughtfully paired dish from La Tourelle’s kitchen can be optionally enjoyed, perfectly complementing the evening’s varietals. This course isn’t just a one-off; attendees can choose to join any or all sessions, making it flexible for local enthusiasts and visitors alike. Groups range from an intimate 6 to 24 participants, fostering a welcoming atmosphere for learning and discussion. The venue’s inviting event space encourages mingling among fellow wine lovers, enhancing the communal joy of discovery. By situating this course in Ithaca, the organizers link a globally celebrated cultural tradition with the Finger Lakes’ rich winemaking heritage, offering a unique dual appreciation for wine’s multifaceted story. Whether you’re a beginner or refining your palate, this wine course serves as both an educational resource and a vibrant local happening. Make this your go-to Thursday night and deepen your understanding of French wines while enjoying Ithaca’s spirited hospitality. The Ithaca Community Wine Course is truly a standout experience for anyone visiting or living in this adventurous corner of New York. Nearby City: Ithaca Book your spot today and gain confidence and context to enjoy French wine anywhere.

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

2 hours.

Fitness level

No physical fitness required; this is a seated, educational tasting experience

Wildlife

Common sightings of great blue herons near the lake area.
Occasional glimpses of red foxes in the surrounding green spaces.

History

La Tourelle Hotel and Spa is an iconic Ithaca establishment blending hospitality with local character, perfectly suited for a cultured wine course.

Conservation

The venue and instructors emphasize sustainable local sourcing for food pairings, supporting Finger Lakes’ eco-conscious agricultural practices.

Experience Finger Lakes is a small Ithaca, New York–based tour operator that designs and delivers guided experiences across the Finger Lakes region. The company organizes curated wine tours, guided natural‑history hikes, multi-course chef‑and‑sommelier dining, educational wine courses, and fully customizable private tours. Experience Finger Lakes leads the Curated Cayuga Westside Wine Discovery Tour featuring three partner wineries: Buttonwood Grove, Six Eighty Cellars, and Bet the Farm, with elevated tastings and planned lunch and transportation recommendations. Guided hiking options include the Ithaca is Gorges & Waterfalls Guided Natural History Hikes, with routes to Taughannock Falls or through Enfield Gorge led by knowledgeable naturalists. The business also offers a community class series, Ithaca Community Wine Course: Demystifying French Wine, taught by certified sommelier Dr. Laura Winter Falk. For private dining, Experience Finger Lakes pairs regional chefs with Certified Sommelier Laura Winter Falk for a Private Chef‑Somm Wine‑Paired Lunch or Dinner Experience delivered at private venues or in‑home settings. Additional offerings listed include a Guided EAST SENECA Lake Wine Tour with Lunch, a Curated Keuka Lake Fine Foods and Wine Pairing tour, and a CUSTOM TOUR option to tailor itineraries. Experience Finger Lakes handles logistics, tasting reservations, and coordination with local partners to create seamless days exploring vineyards, gorges, and regional cuisine. The company’s programming focuses on high-quality tastings, expert-led education, and personalized service for visitors seeking curated Finger Lakes wine and nature experiences. Bookings are available year-round with seasonal itineraries and flexible private group scheduling to suit travel preferences and timing needs.

Base locationIthaca, New York

Tours offered7+

Specialtyothers

StewardshipLeave No Trace

My Trip

My Trip

Discover French Wine Secrets in Ithaca: Demystifying French Wine Course at La Tourelle

A full day in Ithaca.

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