From Curiosity to Confidence: The Value of Professional Wine Tutoring

Wine is more than a beverage; it is a subject shaped by place, history, and craftsmanship. Yet for many, understanding wine can feel intimidating. That’s where The Wineologist comes in. Through professional, personalized wine education guided by Suzanne Bonham, DipWSET, learners transform uncertainty into confidence and develop a clear, thoughtful approach to experiencing wine with curiosity and enjoyment.

Why Wine Education Matters

At The Wineologist, wine education is designed to feel welcoming, not exclusive. A structured, guided approach allows you to:

• Enhance appreciation by understanding the craft and decisions behind each wine

• Develop tasting skills that help you recognize structure, aroma, and balance

• Approach food and wine pairing with confidence and intention

• Build practical confidence when selecting wines or hosting educational tastings

Wine is not something to memorize, but something to understand through guided exploration.

What to Expect from Private Wine Tutoring

Professional tutoring through The Wineologist is designed to meet you exactly where you are in your wine journey. Each session is customized, blending WSET-style structure with approachable, hands-on learning.

Personalized Learning

Every student is unique. Sessions focus on your specific goals, whether that’s mastering tasting technique, exploring world wine regions, or understanding pairing principles.

Guided, Educational Tastings

Wine is best understood through structured observation and tasting analysis. When included, optional tasting components are designed to build sensory awareness and vocabulary, helping students identify flavor, structure, and balance with confidence.

“Wine should be discovered with wonder and joy not pressure or pretense. When you take the time to taste thoughtfully and observe what’s in the glass, every experience becomes an opportunity to learn.”  — Suzanne Bonham, DipWSET

Comprehensive Curriculum

Lessons draw from internationally recognized frameworks inspired by the Wine & Spirit Education Trust and may include:

• Major grape varieties and wine styles

• Key wine regions around the world

• Winemaking methods and influences

• How to taste and assess wine quality with clarity and structure

Flexible and Accessible

Sessions are available in person in the Raleigh area or virtually. Private and small-group formats ensure a focused, engaging learning environment tailored to your pace and interests.

Why Choose The Wineologist

What sets The Wineologist apart is its educational approach. With advanced certification and professional teaching experience, Suzanne combines technical precision with approachable instruction that makes wine education both accessible and rewarding.

Students gain:

• A strong foundation in wine knowledge

• Practical tasting confidence

• Personalized feedback and guidance

• The freedom to explore wine thoughtfully and at their own pace

“Wine education it’s about discovery. Each time you study the glass, explore its aromas, and reflect on the experience, you build a deeper connection to the wine and the people you share it with.” — Suzanne Bonham, DipWSET

Continue Your Journey

The Wineologist offers a range of education-focused experiences designed to expand knowledge and confidence:

• Private Tutoring Sessions: Tailored instruction for individuals or small groups

• Wine 101 and Beyond Classes: Foundational to advanced, WSET-style education

• Wine & Food Pairing Workshops: Learn principles of balance and harmony

• Private Educational Tastings & Events: Designed for learning, celebration, and connection

Each offering is crafted to make wine approachable, engaging, and deeply rewarding.

Begin Your Wine Education Journey

Wine appreciation is a journey, and the best way to begin is with thoughtful guidance. Whether you’re just starting out or ready to deepen your skills, The Wineologist provides the structure, clarity, and confidence to explore wine with intention.

The Wineologist provides wine education experiences. Any tasting components are optional, limited in volume, and designed solely for educational purposes. No alcohol is sold.

Suzanne Bonham, DipWSET

Certified Wine Educator & Founder, The Wineologist

A series of elegantly arranged wine glasses, with sample size pours of red wine.