Due to some technical difficulties, I wasn’t able to catch last week’s class in real time – but thank goodness for Voice Thread! Reviewing the session and having the opportunity to pause and take very detailed notes.

In this lesson, it was quite fascinating to learn about the specific parts of a vine, ripening and how much of a role that climate plays in the success of a harvest season. What I’m learning thus far about Level 3 is that it continues to build upon the knowledge I gained in Level 2, but it goes to a deeper level. For instance, in Level 2 I learned that there are cool, moderate and warm climates in which grapes can grow in. At Level 3, there are cool, moderate, warm and hot climates – and to take it a step further, we have to be able to classify the climate as continental, maritime or mediterranean. While this seems a bit daunting right now, I’m sure that the more I gain a deeper understanding of the regions, it will be able to discern what type of climate certain grapes like Bordeaux, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir can thrive in.

Also, I knew that Level 3 would require a lot of writing, but last week’s homework assignment gave me a true taste at how much writing I will be doing for my upcoming exam. Drafting my answer for the question reminded me a lot of taking the US History AP exam my junior year of high school. The essay questions on that exam required thoughtful answers with an ability to answer WHY with great detail. As a journalist, I’ve got no problem with over explaining, and I’m sure that this portion of the exam will be a piece of cake – once I commit all of the terms and methods to memory.

This week, we’re diving into our first major wine region – one that is responsible for many of the grape varietals that we’ve grown to love around the world. Here’s a hint: it’s home to one of my new favorite bubbles Crémant.

Until next time, au revoir!