Experiences.com » Culinary

Learn Wine Tasting

Kelsey_L — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 18:32:48 +0000

“Unleash your senses and reveal the exquisite flavors in one glass of wine.”

Wine appreciation goes further than the taste. There’s body, color, smell, and many other tastefully delicious characteristics in a glass of wine. Learning how to taste wines provides you with a greater appreciation for both the wine glass, the vintner (wine maker), and of course the wine itself.

It’s time to get all of your senses in on enjoying this flavorful grape concoction! Instead of just tasting, let’s learn how to smell and see the difference in every glass of wine. While your taste buds are limited to salty, sweet, sour, and bitter, you nose can take in and differentiate thousands of unique scents! It’s time to Learn Wine Tasting and combine all of our senses and enjoy wine like never before.

I’ll Toast to That!

Check that out!

Pour that deep full red wine, and sweet sparkling white into your tall wine glass. Next, tilt the glass away from you and check out the clarity of the wine from the rim edges to the middle of the glass.

What a Tasteful Color!

That sounds like a potentially stupid question, but there are thousands of different colors of wine. Wine tasting goes much further than red and white and blush. If it’s a red wine its color has the potential of maroon, purple, ruby, garnet, red, brick or even brownish! White wines can be clear, pale yellow, straw-like, light green, golden, amber or brown in appearance.

Once you’ve established the color, look into the wine’s opacity. Is the wine watery or dark, translucent or opaque, dull or brilliant, cloudy or clear? Older red wine tends to be more translucent than younger red wines.

Take a Wiff

Our sense of smell is a critical analyzer that is often overlooked when tasting wine! Take your wine for a spin as you gently tilt your glass to bring out the full body smell of the wine (this technique helps vaporize some of the alcohol and releases the wine’s more natural aromas).

I hope you’re not having a bad allergy season, because next you should stick your nose down into the glass and take a deep inhale to enjoy the full aroma. Does the aroma give off an oak, berry, flowers, vanilla or citrus? The aroma of your wine is an excellent source to tell you the quality and unique flavors of your wine.

Mmm Mmm Good

Finally, what we’ve all been waiting for- the taste test! Tilt your glass of wine for a small sip, and let the wine roll across your tongue to take in the flavors. Enjoy the three stages of Wine Tasting: Attack phase, the Evolution phase and the Finish.

Attack Phase:what’s the initial sensation on your palate? The Attack is comprised of four parts: alcohol content, tannin levels, acidity and residual sugar. In a good bottle of wine, these components will be in delicate balance, none overwhelming the others. This phase does not define taste, rather, it defines the sensation of a light or heavy, sweet or dry, soft or firm wine.
Evolution Phase: what are you actually tasting. This phase tells you the actual taste of the wine. When drinking white wine, this phase may include flavors such as apple, pear, tropical, fruity, honey, butter, herbs etc. When drinking red wine, you flavors may consist of berry, plum, prune or fig, clove, cinnamon, oak, cedar, etc.
The Finish: How long does the flavor remain after you’ve swallowed the wine. Is the aftertaste different, or similar to the full flavor you just experienced. How long did it last? What was the last flavor you enjoyed?

Now that you know all of the hidden characteristics there are to each bottle of wine, you are set free to enjoy wine on a whole new level! Based on your personal preference, you can now pair wine with cheese, bread, and a variety of dishes. You now know the right questions to ask, and the different qualities of wine in order to pick out your new favorite bottle!

photo by pedrosimoes7on flickr

Cake Decorating

Kelsey_L — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 15:28:57 +0000

“Cake Decorating: It’s a delicious experience!”

To me, Cake Decorating is a fun filled sport that provides you with a range of creative expression. Whether you’re a food network star, or a newbie with a spatula, Cake Decorating is an art that can be learned and enjoyed by all types of people. Stop paying for the monthly birthday/holiday cakes, and bake something personal with your Cake Decorating talent. This educational experience cannot fail when it ends in a delicious masterpiece!

Wilton Cake Decorating is one of the most prestigious and well-taught courses in the field of cake decorating. This Cake Decorating class will teach you how to whip up flavorful butter crème icing, and how to ice to perfection your favorite cup cakes, cookies, and decorated cakes!

Next blend your favorite extravagant colors and learn to create a bed of flourishing flowers. With the right cake decorating supplies, you can form a cake into a “furry” dog, a basket of blossoms, a holiday masterpiece, and many more creative designs.

Your cake is a canvas, and every person is an artist. Express yourself with the best tasting flavors and most beautiful designs! Host the next big event and whip up some extravagant cupcakes, tiered cakes, and shaped cakes! And hey, if it goes wrong, trust me, no one will complain when they’re devouring your delicious cake.

Check out your nearest Michael’s (craft store) for their weekly Wilton Cake Decorating classes!

Gourmet Cooking Class in Sonoma

Kelsey_L — Sat, 17 Jan 2009 20:28:35 +0000

“The Gourmet Cooking Class in Sonoma makes dinner a celebration as you learn new themes and recipes to wow your friends with at your next dinner party.”

The Gourmet Cooking Class in Sonoma provides you with a selection of culinary courses that broaden your cooking horizons and leave your taste buds for more. Spend your evening or afternoon learning the fine art of gourmet cooking, and learn the best tricks of the trade to show off at your next dinner party. Learn to master cooking utensils and incorporate the best cooking techniques for your gourmet meal, and have your friends begging for your culinary secrets!

The Gourmet Cooking Class in Sonoma is perfect for all levels of chefs. This class provides a variety of entertaining themes for you to include at your next dinner party. Some themes include: Classic Cocktails, Springtime Bistro Supper, and a Contemporary Irish Supper.

Our personal chefs will walk you through the theme of your choice, showing you the best techniques to cook up these entertaining meals. If you desire a more traditional course, our chefs will teach you how to make Delectable Appetizers, Festive Brunches and more.

All of the Gourmet Culinary Classes in Sonoma provide you with hands-on culinary experience and class demonstrations. Our top chefs will teach you the best ways to cook a gourmet meal, and have fun doing it. These entertaining cooking classes also feature wine, beer, or cocktails to compliment your culinary masterpiece!

photo by ReneS

Reno Culinary Class

Kelsey_L — Sat, 17 Jan 2009 19:52:26 +0000

“Broaden your Culinary Horizons and Learn to Cook a Variety of Cuisine with this Reno Culinary Class.”

If you’re tired of the same old cuisine, but have the desire to learn a new art of cooking, the Reno Culinary Class is waiting for you! This class has the potential to cover a broad variety of food ranging from sushi to homemade Italian noodles and more. You decide which cuisine you would like to dabble in, and prepare for an exciting night of gourmet cooking in Reno! Your culinary adventure will take place in the Reno Culinary Center, a 6,000 square foot home of culinary art. This building is home to many Master Chefs, and features your Reno Culinary Class. This center also features a Napa Valley style gourmet deli, kitchen store stocked with a wide variety of ingredients, and a store of appliances and accessories that will entertain you for hours!

The Reno Culinary Class features the freshest ingredients that you will use to create your delectable gourmet meal. Chose from a selection of Asian, Greek, Sushi, Grilling, Seafood, Italian Cooking and more! Bring a guest and enjoy a night of entertainment that will ignite all of your senses. Indulge your taste buds in a quality gourmet meal that was designed by your very own hands!

This Cooking Class will guide you through culinary recipes step by step as you prepare a dish designed to enlighten your taste buds. The featured knife skills lessons will teach you the proper use of the knife and the many artful designs and creations you can make using the right techniques.

The Reno Culinary Class is a great way to broaden your culinary horizons and spend a night igniting your taste buds. Learn to cook cuisine from all around the world, and enhance your knowledge and good ol’ home cooking! This cooking class has something that will leave every individual delighted with culinary extravagance.

photo by ReneS

Las Vegas Culinary Class

Kelsey_L — Sat, 17 Jan 2009 19:25:02 +0000

“Become inspired by the variety of 5-star restaurants in Las Vegas, and spice up your night as you create your own gourmet dishes with the Las Vegas Culinary Class.”

Of course all the 5-star restaurants boast the best food around, but why invest in a one night meal when you could learn the skills and indulge every night of the week! Investing your money in the right place is a hard thing to do in Las Vegas. With this Las Vegas Culinary Class it’s a win win culinary adventure! Invite a friend along and enjoy learning how to make your own five star meal, and be delighted with your experience as you indulge in your gourmet masterpiece.

Your Las Vegas Culinary Class will have you learning from a multi-talented and experienced chef. Join in the camaraderie as you test you cooking skills and hone your inner chef. Your cooking class will feature the freshest ingredients to make the most scrumptious gourmet meals in Las Vegas. Indulge in your experience as you taste test along the way. Save room for the grand finale, when you get to inhale, i mean, appreciate the wonderful gourmet meal you’ve created.

The Las Vegas Culinary Class provides you with the option of choosing Quick Meals, International Delights, Practical Foods, Healthy Eating and many more delectable cuisines. Spend your night indulging your taste buds as you learn the fine art of gourmet cooking.

Spice up your night with the Las Vegas Culinary Class! Whether you’re a culinary professional, or looking for a fun and delicious night on the town, this Las Vegas Culinary Class is sure to leave your taste buds drooling for more!

photo by ReneS

Napa Valley Cooking Class

Kelsey_L — Sat, 17 Jan 2009 18:59:14 +0000

“Gain hands on experience and hone your inner chef with the Napa Valley Cooking Class.”

Napa Valley is infamous for it’s delectable variety of wine. However, few people realize the abundance and diversity of food this region has to offer. There are few better ways to experience wine, than to pair a glass of Pinot Grigio with a glorious plate of food. Send your taste buds to heaven with this Napa Valley Cooking Class which teaches you how to prepare the food, and balance it with its’ perfect match of wine.

The Napa Valley Cooking Class is a hands-on experience that will guide you through the intricate art of gourmet cooking. Your personal chef will teach you the ins and outs of your cooking recipe, and will demonstrate how to make the perfect meal. At the beginning of the cooking class your instructor will provide a thorough overview of the cooking recipe, and begin with an introduction on how to start the main course.

While you follow the demonstration, your personal chef will walk around the room, ready to offer an guidance necessary. The Napa Valley Cooking Class is tailored to all levels of chefs, whether you’re an experienced kitchen chef looking to improve your skills, or a classic home cook, this class will simplify the fine art of gourmet cooking.

Build your foundation with the Napa Valley Culinary Course. While you learn the gourmet recipes and techniques, you will also gain a deeper appreciation of culinary theories that will allow you to tackle any recipe book out there!

photo by ReneS

Chelan Valley Wine Tour

Kelsey_L — Sat, 17 Jan 2009 18:35:49 +0000

“Hop on board for an assault mission of Lake Chelan Valley’s diverse wineries.”

Tour the lush sprawling wineries of Lake Chelan Valley, Washington in a Pinzgauer, a high mobility all-terrain 4×4 military utility vehicle. Get ready to invade the vineyards of Washington, with your taste buds armed and ready to indulge. The Chelan Valley Wine Tour will take you on a four hour adventure tour of up to four or five of the best vineyards of Lake Chelan Valley.

Traverse the countryside and indulge your senses as you see, smell, and taste some of the best wine known to the wine country on your Chelan Valley Wine Tour. Your military vehicle will have you riding in style as your sightseeing adventure takes you across the sprawling meadows, rigid cliffs, and rolling hills of Washington.

Once you come across the vast hills of the vineyards, your travel tour will come to a stop. Delight your senses at these local wineries where you are given the opportunity to tour the facilities and indulge your taste buds.

Wineries that you may visit include Chelan Estate Vineyards & Winery, Tildio Winery, Balsamroot Winery and Vineyard, Vin du La, Tsillan Cellars, Lake Chelan Winery, Wapato Point Cellars

This Chelan Valley Wine Tour is a great way to see the gorgeous Washington countryside. See, taste, and smell the sights of the local wineries that are renowned in their region. Spend your day sightseeing with friends and family, and travel the countryside in style as you learn more about Washington’s best local wineries. Before you venture out, learn how to truly taste the flavors of wine with this short article on How to Taste Wine.

photo by ChuckThePhotographer

Ethnic Cooking Class in Pennsylvania

Kelsey_L — Sat, 17 Jan 2009 18:07:00 +0000

“Broaden your Cooking Horizons and learn to cook food from around the world with the Ethnic Cooking Class in Pennsylvania.”

Enjoy a night out with you and a friend, and uncover the hidden wonders of ethnic food. Enjoy this unique Ethnic Cooking Class in Pennsylvania brought to you by the only Southeast Asian cooking school in the Pittsburgh area. Become an expert in exotic cuisine with a selection of: Chinese, Moroccan, Thai, Indian, Asian Vegetarian, or the Asian Holiday Buffet.

Chinese Cooking Class I: This cooking class series is designed to start with the basics and increase your knowledge in Chinese Cooking Skills. Learn the fine art of Chinese cuisine and prepare some of your favorite Chinese dishes along the way!

Chinese Cooking Class II: this series of classes is for students who have a background in Chinese cooking. This class will increase your knowledge and broaden your skills of this ethnic food group. Try out unique recipes and favored cooking techniques of Chinese cuisine.

Thai Cooking Class: This cooking class is a favored by people who have a love for the islands. This class uses ingredients native to the Caribbean, bringing a bit of that island sensation home. Learn home to incorporate ingredients such as coconut, cilantro, lime, mangos, pineapple, curries into your every day cooking. If HOT and SPICY is your passion, then this class has your name written all over it!

Vietnamese Cooking Class: This culinary course includes French and Chinese cooking, ranging from divine French desserts to the classic Chinese spring rolls. Learn how to make scrumptious desserts, fresh spring rolls, and rice noodle soups, tasty sandwiches and stir fry’s.

Indian Cooking Class: The Indian Cooking Class is a wonderful course for vegetarians. This class incorporates many different recipes that shy away from meat and focus on spicing up beans, breads, chutneys, rice dishes and more. A little touch of protein will be included with a delicacy of lamb.

‘Specialty’ Classes: In each changing of season there will be a non–Asian class offered. Fall of 2008 will be Moroccan cuisine and spring of 2009 will be Greek cuisine.

Private Couples Cooking Class

Kelsey_L — Sat, 17 Jan 2009 17:39:16 +0000

“Learn the fine art of cooking in the comfort of your own home.”

The method in which you cook changes in every kitchen you enter. No two kitchens are exactly alike. This Private Couples Cooking Class lets you and your special someone take advantage of your own kitchen while you learn the art of gourmet cooking in the comfort of your home.

Enjoy the wonders of your own personal chef, as your culinary instructor teaches you the fine art of gourmet cooking. Become inspired by your own taste while you design the basis of ingredients that will be used for this 3 hour culinary class.

Inform your personal chef of your favorite gourmet meal, then sit back and watch as your instructor works the magic. Your personal chef will walk you through the basics of cooking, while teaching you how to cook a fine gourmet meal. Take in the techniques as you watch and learn while your chef cooks up a delicious meal for two.

At the beginning of your Private Couples Cooking Class you will be provided with cooking recipes on which you can take notes and write comments on your favorite cooking techniques. Your personal chef will go over culinary techniques, ingredient choices, equipment selection and meal timing that are all required to create that perfect 5 star meal.

The knowledge you gain from this Private Couples Cooking Class will soon make your kitchen your favorite restaurant of choice on a Friday night. Enjoy the comfort of your own home and evening in with a loved one as you cook up a gourmet meal that will have your taste buds delighted. This private class is a great way to spend time with your loved one while learning the art of gourmet cooking, and enjoying your delectable creations along the way.

photo by hilderbrant

Salt Lake City Cooking Class

Kelsey_L — Sat, 17 Jan 2009 17:15:31 +0000

“Hone your inner chef with Cooking Class for Two in Salt Lake City.”

Join Chef Jim Light for a 3 hour educational adventure of the culinary world. This cooking class is both a delicious and educational experience that provides you with the basic knowledge of gourmet cooking. Wow your friends at your next dinner party, or sit in on a Friday and cook up your own fine-dining quality meal with a loved one. Either way, the knowledge gained from this class will have you cooking up a storm and loving every bite of it!

The Salt Lake City Cooking Class is a gourmet cooking class that focuses on the art of a home cooked meal using the freshest ingredients. If you have yet to meet the “green thumb” status of having a garden in your own back yard, this class will teach you how to pick best ingredients from your local farm market.

The executive chef Tom Catrow will teach you how to use the freshest seasonal ingredients, and the cues to pick the grocery items that are at the height of their flavor. Gain hands on experience with personal instruction, and have the advantage of getting personal attention when learning the more challenging cooking techniques.

Enjoy learning to cook with unique cooking utensils as your culinary instructor walks around the classroom providing each individual with the guidance they need. Learn the proper knife techniques and safe food handling practices that will keep your food both delicious and fresh.

The variety of classes provided at the Salt Lake City Cooking Class let you pick from a range of cooking styles varying from domestic to international cuisine. We cordially invite you and a friend to join us select weekday evenings and hone your inner chef.

photo by jasonlam