Once upon a time, Austin's best wine was reserved for true oenophiles. But our local wine world is now more welcoming than ever, as the city's top wine bars and best restaurants open their cellars for informal public education. Check out these three classes that are taking us back to school:
Aviary Wine School
Aviary Wine & Kitchen recently relaunched with a playful menu, categorizing wine by icons such as Willie Nelson, Biggie Smalls and Robin Williams. "It takes a little bit of pomp out of wine," says owner Marco Fiorilo. He started a wine school, where the team leads guests through several wines, detailing their origins and characteristics along the way. Be sure to buy discounted bottles of your favorites to continue the class at home. Aviary Wine School takes place every second Sunday of the month from 4 to 6pm; $25/class; $250/yearlong pass
June's All Day
At June's All Day, master sommelier June Rodil produces wine zines, each one focusing on a different region. June's also hosts blind tasting flights—free to those who can identify each varietal, region and country within five years of the correct vintage (and $10 for everyone else). It's a popular exercise with those studying for the Court of Master Sommeliers tasting grid, but everyone is encouraged to take the challenge. Blind tasting flights take place every Wednesday at 1pm; free-$10
Wine for the People
Sommelier and winemaker Rae Wilson founded Wine for the People to help foster connections within the wine industry. Her wine club offers monthly tastings at Lemon Lounge and includes selections from regions all over the world as well as her own five wines: Dandy rosé, Dandy Bubbles, and the Grower Project white, rosado and red. "We're all about allowing people to access great wine and information," says Wilson. Classes occur at various dates and times; $25; check website for upcoming events
And for the festival fans: Texas Wine Revolution, a nonprofit organization formed in 2016 to celebrate 100 percent Texas-grown wines, returns with its annual festival on April 22 from 1-5pm. This year's event focuses on rosé and features tastings from more than 25 wineries and winemakers plus live music, local food, educational seminars, interactive activities and a silent auction.