Perhaps you already know quite a bit, but want to take your knowledge to the next level—whether to deepen your own enjoyment, further a career in hospitality, or even step into the wine industry.

Living in Asheville, surrounded by beautiful wine country and an ever-evolving food scene, there are countless opportunities to explore wine more meaningfully. But wine can also feel mystifying, even intimidating. That’s why I love teaching the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) courses through MWWine School. 

The WSET Systematic Approach to Tasting gives students an easy-to-follow structure for understanding appearance, aromas, flavors, and quality—so they can objectively assess quality apart from personal preferences. Suddenly, tasting becomes both more approachable and more rewarding.

And then there’s food and wine pairing—a subject close to my heart. Wine wasn’t meant to stand alone; it has been enjoyed with meals for centuries. Pairing isn’t about rigid rules, but about understanding a few simple principles that unlock why certain combinations work so beautifully. 

Salt, for example, softens tannins and makes wines taste fruitier. Fatty foods love acidity—think Champagne with French fries, a pairing as joyful as it is delicious. On the other hand, sugary foods can make dry wines taste dry and overly acidic (wedding cake and Brut Champagne? Perhaps not the best match). 

Once students begin to play with these interactions, the “aha” moments are endless, and the confidence to explore grows.

This fall, I invite you to join me at Quench! Wine Bistro in Asheville for WSET-certified courses designed for both enthusiasts and professionals. Whether you’re just starting your wine journey or are ready to dive deeper, these classes provide the tools to taste, pair, and talk about wine with confidence.

UPCOMING WSET COURSES AT MWWINE SCHOOL

WSET Level 3 Award in Wines begins October 19

*A five-day course + webinar with one exam day

An advanced qualification for those who want to explore the world of wine in depth. Click here for info.

Across five class days (plus one webinar) and more than 70 tastings, students gain a detailed understanding of grape growing, winemaking, and wines of the world. This intensive course is open to those who have completed WSET Level 2 or have equivalent experience in the wine trade.

WSET Level 1 Award in Wines takes place November 24

*A one day course with exam

A one-day beginner-friendly introduction to wine, perfect for those starting a wine career or simply pursuing an interest. Click here for info.

Students explore the main types and styles of wine through sight, smell, and taste, while learning the basics of food pairing, wine service, and etiquette. The day includes tastings of 11 wines, food pairing exercises, and a short exam. Successful candidates receive an internationally recognized certificate and lapel pin.

Want to learn more? Visit melaniewebberwine.com to sign up. Let’s explore together—and make wine not just something you drink, but something you truly experience. 

Edible readers save 10% off course registration with code EDIBLE10

About Melanie Webber

Melanie Webber, DipWSET, is Director of MWWine School, an approved provider of WSET courses in Asheville. A certified wine educator, sommelier, writer, and communications expert, she has helped more than 1,000 professionals and wine lovers achieve their certifications. 

Melanie holds the WSET Diploma as well as French and Spanish Wine Scholar certifications, and is a certified Rioja Educator. She teaches WSET Levels 1–3 and is also a professor of wine studies at College of the Canyons in California.

Her writing has been recognized internationally: Chianti Spritzer on the Beach was Highly Commended in the 2024 Jancis Robinson Wine Writing Competition; Finding Wet Stone was shortlisted in 2023 (which was written in Asheville and inspired, in part by, some of Melanie’s Asheville wine students); and most recently, her article “A Horse of Another Color: Palomino, from Ordinaria to Gloriosa” was selected for publication in the 2025 competition on JancisRobinson.com.