🥂 Join me for an in-depth conversation with Anja Vondenhoff, the Netherlands' premier champagne specialist and educator, as we discuss my experience taking her intensive Champagne Specialist Course. And yes, I passed this Level 4 Champagne Specialist Course with merit!

In this episode, we explore:

• The official Champagne Committee education program and its 4-level structure
• Why completing the free online levels 1-3 at champagne.education is essential
• How tasting 8-9 champagnes per session compares to the standard 4-bottle minimum
• The eye-opening discovery that expensive doesn't always mean better champagne
• Revolutionary champagne and food pairing techniques beyond the traditional oyster match
• The surprising difference between freshly purchased and properly aged champagne
• How to develop professional-level tasting skills regardless of your wine background

🎓 About Anja Vondenhoff:Anja is a WSET Diploma course instructor specializing in sparkling wines, teaches at the prestigious Wijnacademie Vinologenopleiding, and is the official Champagne Specialist Course instructor for the Netherlands. Her courses attract students from across Europe, including participants who fly in from Dubai.

📅 Course Information:The next Champagne Specialist Course runs on 4 Monday evenings in October 2025 in Amsterdam (6 spots still available). The course includes official certification from Épernay, comprehensive tasting sessions, and both theoretical and practical components.

🔗 Connect & Learn More:- Anja's website: wijncampus.nl/champagne-specialist-course- Free preparation: champagne.education/en

Whether you're a wine professional, sommelier, or passionate champagne enthusiast, this conversation reveals insights that will transform how you approach champagne selection, tasting, and appreciation.

Hosted by Jeroen Vonk | Sparks by VinoVonk