Join us for an exclusive Wine Tasting Weekend dedicated to wine exploration, paired with exquisite farm-to-table dining, all set in the peaceful countryside where you can enjoy the luxury of a relaxed pace. This unique weekend will be hosted by Samuel Chantoiseau, Head Sommelier at Ballymaloe House, alongside Colm McCan, Wine Teacher at Ballymaloe Cookery School.
Whether you are a wine enthusiast or looking to refine your palate, this immersive experience will introduce you to the captivating world of wine. Over the course of the weekend, you will embark on a journey to discover organic, biodynamic, and natural wines from diverse regions, learn about emerging trends, and refine your skills in the delicate art of food and wine pairing.
This is an ideal Christmas gift for the wine lovers in your life, and suitable for beginners. Book your place today.
The weekend kicks off at 18:00 on Friday with a tour of our historic wine cellar, followed by a welcome drink.
After a leisurely breakfast on Saturday, join us in the Conservatory from 10:30 for the first Wine Talk & Tasting. Colm and Samuel will guide you through the world of wine, covering vineyards, regions, grape varieties, wine styles, viticulture (growing vines), and vinification (winemaking). Enjoy a light lunch paired with a glass of sparkling wine while continuing your wine appreciation journey.
The afternoon session begins at 14:30, focusing on organic, biodynamic, and natural wines. Colm will discuss emerging wine regions, new trends, the effects of climate change on grapes, and the health benefits of wine. He will also teach food and wine pairing, offering a preview of the evening’s dinner selections. This session will include tastings of red wines.
On Saturday evening, indulge in a 5-course dinner with expertly paired wines.
After a leisurely breakfast on Sunday, the final part of the weekend begins with a Wine Talk& Tasting session from 10:30 to 12:30, focused on sparkling and dessert wines. Topics covered will include the world of sparkling wines—Champagne, frizzante, and spumante — where you will learn how they are made, served, and stored.
Colm and Samuel will explore classic sparkling wine blends, new trends, and diverse styles of sweet and fortified wines, including Port, Sherry, and Madeira, along with food pairing suggestions.
Come immerse yourself in the elegance and enjoyment of wine at Ballymaloe House and leave with a deeper appreciation and understanding of every glass you pour.
