For thoughtful drinkers, industry professionals, and anyone curious about the systems that shape what we grow, sell, and pour.
Can wine truly be apolitical? In this discussion-driven class, we’ll examine the forces that shape what ends up in your glass—from tariffs and trade disputes to appellation laws, labeling regulations, and geographic protections. We’ll explore how government policy influences pricing, distribution, farming practices, and even stylistic decisions. Through case studies and guided tasting, we’ll unpack how seemingly “neutral” wines are deeply connected to economics, land rights, climate policy, and global trade. Wine doesn’t exist in a vacuum, and understanding its political context reveals a deeper layer of how the industry functions.