Ste. Michelle Wine Estates and Wine Folly Launch Free Online American Cabernet Course
Woodinville, WA
In a shared effort to make wine education more accessible, Washington's founding winery, Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, and Wine Folly, the leader in modern wine education, are offering a lesson in America's favorite red wine: Cabernet Sauvignon. The new online American Cabernet course, typically priced at $99, will be available free for six months starting January 12, 2026, for anyone from wine industry professionals to curious enthusiasts who want to better understand U.S. Cabernet.
Cabernet Sauvignon is America’s most influential red wine, yet its story changes dramatically from region to region. This 101-level course unpacks how Cabernet evolved in the U.S., why Napa Valley and Washington taste so different, and what truly shapes quality in the glass.
Led by Wine Folly co-founder, Madeline Puckette and Master of Wine, Christine Marsiglio, this one-hour course dives into the distinctions between wine profiles, growing conditions, and the value of Cabernet Sauvignon from leading U.S. regions, including Washington’s Columbia Valley and California’s Napa Valley, Sonoma, and Paso Robles.
“We’re thrilled to offer this course for free to anyone eager to explore Cabernet, whether it’s part of their career in wine or a passion for learning more about their favorite variety,” says Puckette.
The Course Includes:
- Tasting Video featuring a curated selection of Cabernet wines
- Final Exam to test your knowledge
- Certificate of Completion to showcase your expertise professionally
What You’ll Learn:
- American Cab History: Trace the rise of Cabernet Sauvignon in the U.S., from early plantings to today’s benchmark regions.
- Clear Cabernet Frameworks: Understand how climate, structure, and blending shape Cabernet styles across America.
- Certified Exam: Complete Wine Folly’s 40-question certificate exam and add it to your LinkedIn profile.
For more information or to register, visit https://shop.winefolly.com/products/american-cabernet-101
About Ste. Michelle Wine Estates - https://www.smwe.com/
Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, an icon of the Pacific Northwest, was the first premium wine company in Washington state, with roots dating back to 1933. For more than 90 years, we have set the standard for excellence, earning recognition as one of the most acclaimed premium wine companies in the United States. Today our wines are enjoyed in all 50 states in 100 countries.
Our award-winning portfolio reflects an unwavering commitment to quality and sustainability, showcasing the distinctive character of Washington and Oregon’s renowned growing regions. Ste. Michelle Wine Estates’ brands include Chateau Ste. Michelle, 14 Hands, Columbia Crest, Liquid Light, ESTIVAL, ETHOS, Spring Valley Vineyard, and Northstar from Washington State. Ste. Michelle also serves as the sales agent for A to Z Wineworks, Erath, and REX HILL from Oregon.
About Wine Folly
Wine Folly, established in 2011, is a leading wine education company dedicated to making wine knowledge accessible and enjoyable. Known globally for its engaging content, visually appealing guides, and in-depth insights, Wine Folly helps wine enthusiasts learn more about wine in a fun and approachable way.
Learn more at www.winefolly.com
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For further information:
Lynda Eller
lynda.eller@smwe.com
