The MW Study Programme is challenging for even the most accomplished wine professionals. Our MW Master Class is designed to help current MW students sharpen their practical tasting, strengthen their theory answers, and develop the analytical thinking needed to succeed.
Whether you’re preparing for Stage One or refining your approach to later stages of the MW study programme, you’ll benefit from intensive tuition, individual feedback and the opportunity to learn from two of the world’s most experienced Master of Wine educators.
Register for the next MW Master Class
Being accepted onto the MW Study Programme is a significant achievement.
But for many students, the reality of the programme is very different from what they expected.
The volume of study is immense. The tasting papers demand a different level of analysis. Theory papers require clear, structured arguments rather than simply demonstrating knowledge. Progress can feel slow, and many students find themselves questioning whether they’re approaching the programme in the right way.
These challenges are normal.
The good news is that they can be addressed with the right guidance.
You may recognise some of these challenges:
If so, you’re not alone.
Many capable MW students encounter these obstacles. Our MW Master Class is designed to help you overcome them.
Master Classes is led by Natasha Hughes MW and Cathy van Zyl MW, educators with decades of combined experience teaching, mentoring, and supporting Master of Wine candidates from around the world.
Their experience extends far beyond passing the exams themselves. They understand how successful candidates develop the habits, judgement, and analytical skills that the programme rewards.
Throughout the course, you’ll receive practical guidance, honest feedback, and strategies you can immediately apply to your own studies.
Our MW Master Class focuses on the skills that make the greatest difference to your progress as an MW student.
During the course, you’ll learn how to:
Rather than overwhelming you with more information, we help you develop better ways of thinking.
Studying for the Master of Wine can be an isolating experience.
Our MW Master Class brings together a small group of committed MW students in an environment designed for discussion, challenge, and shared learning.
You’ll have the opportunity to:
Dates: 2-5 November 2026.
Location: Napa Valley Wine Academy, Napa, California.
Educators: Natasha Hughes MW and Cathy van Zyl MW.Â
Class size: Limited to ensure individual feedback and discussion.
This MW Master Class is designed for:
On 2-5 November 2026, we will be running our California Master Classes at the Napa Valley Wine Academy. Practical sessions will take place on 2-3 November, and 4-5 November will be dedicated to theory.
Click below for more information about the course and to register for all four days, or for the two-day practical or theory sessions.
On 26-29 April 2027, we will be running Master Classes in London at Liberty Wines in Clapham, South London.
Click below for more information about the course and to register for all four days, or for the two-day practical or theory sessions.
Yes. This course is designed specifically for current Master of Wine students. If you’re considering applying for the MW Study Programme, our Bridging Course is the most appropriate starting point.
No course can guarantee success. However, our MW Master Class is designed to help you develop the analytical skills, practical tasting techniques, and exam approach expected of successful Master of Wine candidates.
Tasting forms a central part of the programme, with guided tastings, discussion, and individual feedback throughout the course. Two full days are devoted to tasting, and two days to theory.
The course is led by Natasha Hughes MW and Cathy van Zyl MW, both internationally respected educators with extensive experience supporting Master of Wine candidates. Meet your Educators here.
The next 2026 MW Master Class takes place at Napa Valley Wine Academy, one of the world’s leading wine education providers, in Napa, California. Subsequent courses are scheduled for Asia (venue and dates tbc) and London (April) in 2027.Â
Success in the MW Study Programme isn’t simply about knowing more. It’s about thinking more clearly, analysing more effectively, and communicating your ideas with confidence.
Our MW Master Class is designed to help you do exactly that.
Places are limited to maintain a highly interactive learning environment.
Register for the MW Master Class
Natasha and Cathy are happy to answer any questions you have about Master Classes or speak to you about setting up Master Classes for groups of MW students anywhere in the world. If you would like more information, let us know.