Cognac, much like Champagne, is a region that is dominated by it's big names, but also where smaller, family owned producers continue to thrive alongside them. From these less well known houses come not just some of the best value brandy on the market, but some of the finest examples available anywhere. For this tasting we are proud to present a range of Cognacs that perfectly encapsulate that. Tesseron, founded in 1905 by Abel Tesseron and renowned for their collections of aged eaux-de-vie, and Lheraud, the eponymous family who have lived in the region since 1680 and produced their first Cognac in 1802, will be the stars of the evening. We will taste through several Cognacs from both houses, from their more entry level offerings, through to some rare and very old blends.

Home to many of the greatest expressions of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot in the world, Bordeaux can also at times be synonymous with some of the most eye watering prices in wine. For most wine lovers the likes of Petrus or Lafite are aspirational - bucket list bottles certainly, but likely not ones we are filling our cellars with. Fortunately a lot of the great chateau also produce seconds wine at far more affordable prices. Whether they are from younger vines or fruit that didn't quite make the cut for the grand vin, these wine are still usually of a very high quality and offer an insight into the differing styles of chateaux. Join us in the Jervois Road cellar as we take an in depth look at some of the finest examples of these, sampled from across Bordeaux and from some of the region's most renowned estates.

Over the last thirty years, the Glengarry Wine Academy has established itself as one of the leading wine educators in New Zealand. Initially created to train Glengarry staff, it is also widely used by the hospitality industry and wine enthusiasts. Informative, but never intimidating, the Glengarry Wine Academy courses are an opportunity for beginners as well as experienced aficionados to expand their knowledge and develop their interest. This four week course is the second in the series and follows from Wine Academy Stage I. Stage Two will look closely at grape varieties and their interpretations from around the world with a major focus on tastings. All wines are premium to super premium in nature. It is recommended that participants have completed Wine Academy Stage I (or similar course) before embarking on Wine Academy Stage II. A four week course | Wednesday 17th August, Wednesday 24th August, Wednesday 31st August and Wednesday 7th September.

Over the last 20+ years, the Glengarry Wine Academy has established itself as one of the leading wine educators in New Zealand. Initially created to train Glengarry staff, it is also widely used by the hospitality industry and wine enthusiasts. Informative, but never intimidating, the Glengarry Wine Academy courses are an opportunity for beginners as well as experienced aficionados to expand their knowledge and develop their interest. In stage 1 you learn about the varieties, stage 2 you explore their differing personalities around the world. In Stage 3 you take a major look a key wine making regions in the world. This course dives under the cover, you learn all about the great wines of Bordeaux, Burgundy and many more. A four week course | Wednesday 28th September, Wednesday 5th October, Wednesday 12th October and Wednesday 19th October. The course fee and content covers all four weeks.