Free official online course

Your seat includes the official Capstone California Introductory Level 1 online course (about 6 hours, normally US$175) – start it as soon as you have booked.

Your Student Workbook (PDF)

Download it in your prep area and read it before the class. Everything taught on the day and everything in the exam is in it.

Theory, tasting, exam & certificate

On the day we go through the theory together, taste California wines and sit the exam – pass to receive your Capstone California Level 1 certificate and pin.

About the class

Capstone California is the California Wine Institute's official education programme. In one day you discover California wine from the Mission era to today: geography and climate, soils, viticulture, the key grape varieties, the AVA system (Napa Valley, Sonoma County, Santa Barbara and more) and iconic producers. We go through the theory together in class – but the more you do in advance, the easier the day and the higher your grade: 1) start the free Capstone online course, 2) read your Student Workbook (PDF), 3) join us on Wed 11 November – the exact venue is emailed to you on Sat 7 November. For the best of the best: in May 2027 we run Capstone California Level 2 – usually $1,100, with 40 wines – and the top students from this class receive a seat for free. Already booked? Sign in and open "Get started: your free Capstone online course".

Christian Esser, Director of Education

Christian has taught wine and spirits for more than 20 years and has certified over 15,000 students across the Caribbean and the Americas. He founded the Academy of Wine & Spirits in the Cayman Islands – named Best Luxury Beverage Education Provider 2026 at the LUXlife Hospitality Awards – and has been part of Cayman Cookout every year since 2009.

Curriculum

3 Chapters · 7 Lessons

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Your seat is confirmed: date, time & venue

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      How the day works

    3. (Included in full purchase)

      Get started: your free Capstone online course

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      Your Student Workbook (PDF)

    2. (Included in full purchase)

      What to read before the class

    3. (Included in full purchase)

      What to bring on the day

    1. (Included in full purchase)

      The exam, certificate & pin

Ready for California?

Have an invitation code? Reserve your seat on our website – there is nothing to pay. Questions: WhatsApp +1 (345) 938 0458.

$350.00

Reserve your seat