Tasting: Wine 101 with Alicia Barrett

What better way to celebrate the arrival of summertime Chi than with French wine and cheese in the Alliance’s lush courtyard!

Join us for this beginner-level tasting, where you’ll sample affordable (but delicieux!) French white wines perfect for all your summer pique-niques and apéros. Guests will:

• Snack on delicious French cheeses generously provided byFromager D’Affinois
• Vibe to contemporary Franco beats by DJ Frankie French
• Learn a thing or two about tasting in a relaxed, social setting

This accessible beginner tasting is aimed at those who are new to wine and are looking to begin their tasting journey.

The evening will begin with a refreshing complimentary Negroni blanc cocktail, followed by a brief presentation by sommelière Alicia Barrett on the featured wines with suggestions on how to taste them. Guests will then have the chance to visit different stations, where they’ll enjoy tasting pours of a variety of excellent—yet approchable—French wines.

Don’t miss this opportunity to mix and mingle with your fellow Chicagoland Francophiles and arts & culture enthusiasts in our jewelbox courtyard!

Doors at 6:00 p.m. for a welcome cocktail. Program at 6:30. Please enter via 810 N Dearborn St.

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.

About the DJ

DJ Frankie French

François “DJ Frankie French” Bosseau is a Chicago-based artist who loves music, art, and fitness. He creates innovative beats and experiences for wide-ranging audiences.