Just 80 lucky readers can join each of our exclusive Decanter Masterclasses. Hosted by expert speakers who guide guests through a personally selected range of fine wines, these privileged tastings must be booked separately from Grand Tasting tickets. With such an incredible choice of Masterclasses, early booking is advised to avoid disappointment.
Premier cru classé Château Mouton Rothschild is at the heart of this Masterclass, which explores a range of Baron Philippe de Rothschild wines. When each label carries a specially commissioned work of art, you know that the story behind the wine will show the same attention to detail and love of beauty as what's inside. Taste for yourself - under the tutelage of Baron Philippe de Rothschild's winemaker Philippe Dhalluin and European manager Hervé Berland - how terrior, vintage and winemaking shape each wine and form its distinctive character.
Saint-Emilion premier cru classé Château Cheval Blanc presents this Masterclass of great wines. Taste for yourself the powerful personality of each vintage from this highly sought after estate. Pierre Lurton, general manager of Cheval Blanc, has chosen a selection of his wines, both Cheval Blanc and second label Petit Cheval, to showcase the character, philosophy and history of this famous name.
This will be a tasting to tell your grandchildren about. Spain's magnificent Vega Sicilia, a wine revered and collected around the world, is presented in a range of vintages dating back to 1942. Jasper Morris MW, a regular Decanter taster and contributor, will lead the class through this stunning collection. This is a rare opportunity to explore the development of a masterpiece over more than 60 years.
Vega Sicilia Unico 1991, 1989, 1987, 1964, 1953, 1942
If only every day could start with a tasting of vintage Veuve Clicquot. Sip your way through a range of exquisite vintage Veuve Clicquot Champagnes chosen and introduced by Frédéric Panaïotis, Veuve Clicquot's oenologist. The House of Veuve Clicquot, founded in 1772, is among the oldest and most prestigious Champagne firms, and this Masterclass will be a delicious treat for Champagne lovers. M. Panaïotis has chosen the following wines for Decanter's readers:
A complete celebration of grand cru classé Saint-Julien Château Beychevelle, from barrel samples of the most recent vintages to fully matured wines. Taste under the experienced guidance of Château Beychevelle's general manager Philippe Blanc as you explore the unique nature of each vintage, gaining a thorough understanding of this Bordeaux classic. The Masterclass will also include a chance to taste recent vintages from second label Amiral de Beychevelle. The tasting ends on a sweet note with two vintages from Beychevelle's Hungarian property Hetszölö, introduced by Dr Tibor Kovacs.
Château Beychevelle 2002 (barrel sample) 2001, 2000, 1999, 1997, 1989
Amiral de Beychevelle 2001, 2002 (barrel sample)
Hetszölö Tokay Aszu 6 Puttonyos 1995, 1996
Tickets £45 per person
Grange is the legend of Australian wine and this Masterclass offers you the chance to taste a selection of vintages and gain a new understanding of this very special wine. Peter Gago, Penfolds chief winemaker, introduces a selection of vintages from Grange and Penfold's classic Shiraz, St Henri. Learn the secrets of the winery from the man in charge of creating a national treasure.
Tickets £45 per person
Spaces for these Masterclasses are limited so early booking is advised. Tickets on sale 6 August 2003
Masterclass tickets must be purchased seperately from Encounter tickets. Each Masterclass lasts approximately an hour and a half
