Advanced Wine Tasting - Champagne Tasting

This season, elevate your celebration with a curated blind tasting that goes far beyond bubbles. From the storied Grand Marques to the quietly brilliant grower-producers, each Champagne will be tasted blind and paired with a complementary small bite to reveal its food pairing potential—without the influence of branding or reputation.

Throughout the evening, guests will explore the nuanced terroirs of Champagne, from the chalky slopes of the Côte des Blancs to the Pinot-driven powerhouses of the Montagne de Reims and the expressive blends of the Vallée de la Marne. We’ll delve into the impact of soil composition, microclimate, and winemaking while comparing traditional house styles with the precision and individuality of grower philosophies.

Whether you’re selecting bottles for a holiday soirée or refining your understanding of Champagne’s subregions and grape varieties, Alicia will offer you the opportunity to challenge your palate, deepen your knowledge, and discover which cuvée deserves a place at your festive table.

About the Sommelière

Alicia Barrett

Alicia Barrett’s passion for wine began after a transformative trip to Burgundy, inspiring her to pursue a deep dive into the world of wine education. She holds the prestigious WSET Diploma, a qualification earned by only a select group of wine professionals globally. Alicia previously served as the wine educator for Binny’s Beverage Depot in Illinois, where she led educational programs for both staff and customers across 45 locations. She is also an educator for the U.S. Champagne Bureau and conducts wine tastings for the Alliance Française. Previously, Alicia worked as a sommelier at the InterContinental Hotel-Chicago. When not immersed in the world of wine, Alicia enjoys exploring new culinary experiences, traveling, and living in the city.