Gretchen has been running wine classes and tutored and competitive tastings for 8 years. She brings great enthusiasm and a fair whack of knowledge to the proceedings. Like cookery, Gretchen believes one learns the most about wine in a fun, informal atmosphere, where even the complete novice feels at ease. Some of Gretchen’s wine students have stayed with her from the very first term of teaching in early 2002, becoming firm friends.

Gretchen runs weekly classes, commencing in September 2010 in the new Woolsgrove cookery school and rooms. Every term is a different theme, as narrow as Southern France and as broad as New World! Classes are on Tuesday evenings from 7-9 pm. Six wines are tasted, discussed, argued, considered and noted, amongst some teaching and much banter. Students take it in turn to take home unfinished bottles. Feel free to come to a class to see if you like it. Cost is only £6 per session plus shared cost of the wines, normally about £5-8 per session. At £11-£14 per session, it is a fun, informative and delicious night out. One veteran  and current student is even teaching herself for the University of the Third Age, so watch out, you may even learn something!

As well as the weekly classes, Gretchen holds tutored and/or competitive tastings on a bespoke basis by arrangement. They are great fun and make a good change from a pub quiz or office supper. Selling tickets make tastings the perfect novel solution for those in charge of fundraising. Ring Gretchen to discuss your needs.

Gretchen is applying for a licence so that she can sell wines, be it a bottle or a case. Woolsgrove has perfect cool cob barns for storing wine, and a state-of-the-art wine cooler that keeps different styles of wine at the correct temperatures. This ensures anything you buy is in tip-top condition. Gretchen has a wealth of experience at advising on your wine needs, be it cheap and cheerful party and fundraiser wines, to fine wines and food and wine matching. Do ring Gretchen to see if she can help with your wine needs.

Gretchen also sells fantastic wine accessories from Screwpull and glassware from LSA, perfect for personal use or for great gifts.