Elevation is one of the most powerful yet often overlooked factors influencing the character of wine. In this class, we explore how vineyards planted at different altitudes create dramatically different expressions of the same grape varieties.

Higher elevations typically experience cooler temperatures, greater diurnal temperature swings, increased sunlight intensity, and slower ripening cycles. Lower elevation vineyards, by contrast, tend to produce wines that are fuller-bodied, richer, and more fruit-forward due to warmer growing conditions and faster ripening.

Through a guided tasting of six wines sourced from both high-altitude and low-elevation vineyards around the world, participants will experience how elevation influences grape ripening, acidity, tannin development, and flavor intensity.
Nicholas Kubiak is a Certified Specialist of Wine and Spirits and a veteran of our local wine industry.