Let’s face it, wine can be intimidating. Vintages, varietals, pairings, etiquette; even the most seasoned connoisseur can get lost.  Both wine and cuisine are continually evolving and there is always more to learn, whether you are just developing an interest or an industry professional.

Maybe you want to learn how to cook a gourmet meal?  Or go on that date and navigate the wine list like a pro? How do different flavors affect different wines, and how do you identify the notes you like?  What are notes??

These questions and many others are answered through the Foundation Academy. The Wine & Food Foundation of Texas prides itself on capturing the excitement of this dynamic nature by offering fun, informative classes for all experience and interest levels. Classes are offered as part of the Foundation’s mission of community education in wine and food and as a benefit to our members. Foundation members receive significant discounts to most all classes.

Foundation Academy classes are affordable, accessible and taught by top professionals. Many of our classes are exclusive to the Foundation and cannot be found elsewhere. Instructors are friendly, highly knowledgeable and committed to providing a fun and meaningful educational experience.

The Foundation produces six to eight classes per year hosted by the hottest venues in Austin. They are taught by professional sommeliers and chefs who generously volunteer their time. Classes are generally small in size to ensure a more personal experience and topics range from interactive cooking, to Wine 101, to specific regions and varietals. All levels of expertise are welcome (participants must be 21).

“When it comes to teaching, Jane Nickles is a first growth!” John Street

“This is the best hands-on cooking class I have ever attended; and I have been to many!” Aleta Garcia

“We would definitely attend future classes. Most importantly, this took me to a comfort level to cook (create) a dish that has intimidated me for years.” Claire Johnson.

Thanks to our outstanding team of volunteer instructors, venue hosts and compelling topics, Foundation Academy classes are a hit with both members and the general community. Attendance is often sold-out so be sure to become a Foundation member to receive early notification of class registration.

WFFT Instructors:

Mark Sayre, Sommelier, Four Seasons Hotel & TRIO in Austin

Photo, Bio

Devon Broglie, Sommelier, Whole Foods Market, Austin

Craig Collins, Sommelier, Prestige

Kevin Quinn, Chef Instructor, Texas Culinary Academy

Jane Nickles, Wine Instructor and Sommelier, Texas Culinary Academy

Michael Vilim, Sommelier/Owner, Mirabelle, Austin