Frequently Asked Questions

  • We are in Suite 205 - the space directly above The Vineyard Wine Market in Smyrna Village Market. Enter through the double doors in the center of the complex and take the elevator or stairs to the second floor. Take the hallway to the left, 2nd door on your left. Or exit from the stairs and it’s the wooden door directly across.

  • Parking is free and abundant in all lots of the Smyrna Village Market.

    Park between The Vineyard Wine Market and Village Bourbon & Cigar for quick access.

  • YES! There is easy access to an elevator in the building. While our front door is heavy - a good knock and we will happily open. Once inside, there is one more doorway that may be a tight fit for larger mobility aids (currently 22” - but we are working on it). There are several different types of seating that can work for anyone with mobility aids.

  • Mainly your brain and your palate - both open and ready to expand. We can provide aroma wheels, scratch paper, tasting sheets, and any tasting grid you prefer but always helpful if you can bring your own.

    Things you may want to bring: favorite writing utensil, notebook, bottled water.

  • Because we store wine at OI, we tend to keep the thermostat at a brisk 67 degrees. You may want to bring a light jacket if you are someone who gets cold easily.

    The educator at OI will use presentations and educational materials you may need glasses to see clearly. If you have any visual impairments we can offer large format materials with advanced notice.

    Please refrain from wearing any body spray, perfume, or cologne. This can interrupt the aromatics of the wine tasted. And strong scents can also adversaly affect those with allergies and sensory issues.

  • Our classes vary in length but most are between 1-2 hours.

    Some special events and Masterclasses will be longer than 2 hours.

  • Overall, the Oenophile Institute does not “push” any bottle sales during a typical class. If you are interested in purchasing a bottle you have tasted, the educator will be able to tell you where to find it locally or if it is available at The Vineyard Wine Market downstairs.

    Most wines can also be ordered through the Vineyard Wine Market depending on availability and stocking.

  • Occasionally. We are currently working on expanding these opportunities to be more accessible for those with different learning styles, schedules, and distance. We do offer pick-up tasting kits and/or to email any accompanying presentations for at-home, self-study and those unable to attend.

Policies

    • All class attendees must be 21 years of age or older. Valid ID may be requested upon attendance.

    • We reserve the right to not serve anyone alcohol at anytime. Be safe & be nice.

    • The Oenophile Institute is committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all attendees and educators, regardless of race, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, or disability. Discrimination or harassment of any kind will not be tolerated. We believe that diversity and inclusivity are crucial to the success of our institute and encourage all participants to join us in promoting a respectful and supportive community.

    • On that note, the Oenophile Institute has an absolute zero tolerance policy for gatekeeping, pretentiousness, or condescension. Any attendee who makes another feel unwelcome or uncomfortable will be asked to leave without a refund.

    • Please be respectful of not only our staff, educators, and fellow students - but also, to the yoga practitioners in the space next door. Keep any conversations in the hallway between classes to a hushed whisper.

    • Registration is not necessary to attend class. However, all classes, masterclasses, and special events have an attendance cap based on space and availability of wine. We strongly recommend registering.

    • Registering for class with a deposit or full payment guarantees your seat.

    • Deposits are available for most classes and events at the Oenophile Institute. All deposits are non-refundable.

    • Drop-in attendance: seats will be first-come first-served for any attendee that arrives on-time for class

    • Without registration you may be denied attendance based on space and materials available.

    • Classes are educational settings and therefore run on a strict time frame. Classes will begin and end promptly at times listed.

    • Class start times may be held up to 5 minutes during Smyrna festivals, holidays, etc.

    • The Institute will be open to attendees 15 minutes before class begins to get settled, check in, etc.

    • Any late attendees will not be given the option to stay after to "catch up on what they missed" i.e. go over information, taste wine, etc.

    • All deposits for registered classes are non-refundable.

    • If you pay in full at time of registration - a cancellation that takes place within 24 hours of the class will be non-refundable. Pick-up tasting kits & informational packets may be available upon request.

    • Any class with less than 4 attendees may be cancelled by the Oenophile Institute within 48 hours. The class price will be 100% refunded or a credit will be given to use for a future or rescheduled class.