What did wine taste like in Ancient Rome? How did Madeira acquire its distinctive style? What was Louis XIV’s favourite wine? And how did scientific progress in the nineteenth century impact wine-making? Join Anne McHale, Master of Wine, on a fascinating journey through the history of wine to answer these questions and more.

Over the course of seven video-based lessons, you’ll look at taste, religion, trade, science and technology, and you’ll even taste a few historic wine styles. You don’t have to get your hands on to these wines to get the most out of the course but Anne has chosen styles that are readily available – if you wish to join in, you’re most welcome.

The perfect course for wine lovers who would like to delve a little deeper into its rich past.

Course Outline

Session One: Introduction – 6.54 mins

Session Two: Taste – 13.07 mins

Session Three: Religion – 11.25 mins

Session Four: Politics and International Trade – 13.25 mins

Session Five: Science and Technology – 14.16 mins

Session Six: Provenance, Terroir and Brand – 12.57 mins

Session Seven: Conclusion – 6.22 mins

About the tutor

Anne McHale is an award-winning Master of Wine, independent wine consultant and wine educator based in London. Born and brought up in Belfast, Northern Ireland, she read French & Classics at Cambridge University before entering the wine trade in London. In 2006 she joined the prestigious Berry Bros. & Rudd, where she worked for ten years in the events and education team, whilst also studying for the highly sought-after Master of Wine qualification. In 2013 Anne became a Master of Wine (MW) and in 2016 she established herself as an independent consultant and presenter. She enjoys a varied work life ranging from restaurant and hotel consultancy projects to teaching, writing and presenting about wine. Anne is one of only 370 Masters of Wine worldwide, of whom 125 are women.