Academy of Wine: Spirit of America

TO ATTEND

This outdoor event is available for Academy Members and their invited guests. Tickets are required (1 ticket per admission) for this limited-capacity, general admission event. 

ABOUT THE EVENT

Join Wine Director & Sommelier Michael Wells for this tasting class focused on American hidden gems, and the history of winemaking in the US.

COST

$30 all Non-Member invited guests; discounted for Academy Members

EVENT LOCATION

This event will be held in The Academy's heated Outdoor Garden Terrace with assigned seating.

FOOD & BEVERAGE

Beverages and hors d'oeuvres will be available for purchase (house selections complimentary for Members as usual).

MEMBERSHIP

The Academy is currently accepting new memberships. If you are interested in becoming a Member and enjoying all of the associated perks and benefits, please click here to learn more.

CLUB INFORMATION (FOR MEMBERS)

The Club will also be open during regular hours for Members and their guests not attending this special event. Regular Club guest policy applies. 

ABOUT MICHAEL WELLS

Michael Wells is The Academy's Wine Director and Sommelier. He got his start in wine after moving to New York and starting work at City Winery, a winery, restaurant, and concert venue. During his five year tenure he pursued the Court of Master Sommeliers certification as well as interning for Wine & Spirits Magazine and leading Wine Tours for City Wine Tours. Despite being one of the youngest people in the certification program when he took the level 2 exam, Michael was the top scorer and also received the Walter Clore Award for excellence in wine.

After many years spent working the floor as a sommelier, one of Michael’s favorite parts of his job now is education; helping people discover new wines and feel confident in their selection, eliminating the pretension that has marked the wine industry for many years.

Michael's goal at The Academy is to share his passion and experience in the industry with Academy Members to create informed wine consumers. He aims to do this by offering wine programming that is engaging yet educational and curating a balanced wine list that offers both classics and hidden gems.

In addition to overseeing The Academy’s wine program, Michael also dances professionally for Diablo Ballet, where he debuted a new choreographic production in 2021.