As part of the ongoing Capstone Program, California Wines hosted a series of high-impact masterclasses across Europe, engaging wine professionals, educators, and enthusiasts with the depth and diversity of California’s wine regions. From Poland to Germany to the Netherlands, Capstone Masterclasses brought the story of California wine to life for engaged audiences across Europe – highlighting regional diversity, sustainability, and a new generation of wine ambassadors.
Polish Wine Students Reach Capstone Level 3 Milestone
A major milestone for wine education in Poland: Seventeen enthusiastic and dedicated wine students have completed the Capstone California Wine Certification, Level 3 - the program’s advanced tier. This challenging course is designed for experienced professionals and wine scholars, requiring a deep foundation in wine knowledge and a focused commitment to mastering the complexities of California’s wine regions.
Over the course of the program, participants explored more than 25 wines spanning a wide range of styles and AVAs, featuring respected producers like Rodney Strong, St. Supéry, J Vineyards, Duckhorn and more - all highlighting the depth and diversity of California’s wine landscape.
Spotlight on Lodi: A Rising Star in California Wine
In Warsaw Poland, Master Sommelier Adam Pawlowski MS led a dynamic seminar titled “A Rising Star in California Wine”focused on the Lodi region. A packed room of attendees explored wines from acclaimed producers including Ironstone Vineyards, Turley Wine Cellars, and Michael David Winery. The session showcased Lodi’s unique character and growing recognition on the international wine scene.
Monterey’s Moment: Terroir and Innovation at ProWein
At ProWein in Germany, Capstone educator Dietmar drew a full house for a seminar dedicated to Monterey County. The session emphasized the region’s cool-climate influence, diverse soils, and leadership in sustainability - furthering interest in this rising California appellation among international trade professionals.
