Great beverage classes to try in the Okanagan

So you don't aspire to be a certified sommelier (a trained wine professional).

But, maybe you've been considering taking a class or two to expand your knowledge and curiosity of wine, spirits or beer, but aren't sure where to start.

You're in luck - there are a number of fantastic classes that won't cost you an arm and a leg, that are offered locally by some pretty outstanding individuals.

Wine tasting with Start Fresh Kitchen

Get acquainted with the fundamentals of wine tasting with Arnica Rowan, WSET level 3. Arnica will take you on an educational journey through her seminars ranging in topics from pinot noir to wines from the North Okanagan.

The classes are offered through Start Fresh Kitchen, so you know they'll be whipping up some delectable bites for you to enjoy with your wine.

Check out their schedule here.

Wine Plus+

Rhys Pender has become somewhat of a BC wine ambassador. He holds the prestigious accreditation of Master of Wine - of which there are currently only 369 in the entire world (yes, you read that right).

With such an impressive knowledge of wines from around the world, we are very lucky that he calls BC home and continually endeavours to share his experience and education.

Through his company, Wine Plus+, Rhys offers varying levels of the Wine and Spirit Education Trust.

You can check out the dates and information on his website.

Kelowna Scotch and Fine Spirits Society

This society came about through two friends, Claude Hurtubise and Steve Brown, and their love of brown liquor. What started as a small gathering of friends sharing their collections, has grown into a popular and ever-expanding club.

The society covers anything from rum, bourbon, tequila and whisky, and brings in experts each month to lead the tastings. Expect to try super premium and exclusive spirits, sourced all over Canada to ensure only the best examples are provided.

The society meets once a month, every third Monday in the mezzanine at BNA.

Check them out here.

Know of any other beverage classes in the Okanagan? Tell us about them in the comments!

Laura Milnes is a Kelowna native and local wine professional, operating her own wine and hospitality consulting company. Laura is WSET certified, and continually expands her wine knowledge through education, research and travel. You can find Laura hosting wine related pop up events and consulting with wineries throughout the Okanagan with a focus on wine education and training. The rare time Laura is not reading about, or tasting wine, you can find her travelling with her partner, cooking or doing DIY projects for her home. To learn more about wine check out her Instagram page @silkandcoupe.