School that fizzes with enthusiasm
CeCiLe BeRgARt enjoyed a career as a champagne importer before launching her wine school almost five years ago.
the 43-year- old now runs classes in Southampton, Winchester and Poole, Dorset. the Hampshire Wine School attracts many people, from absolute beginners to those studying for formal Wine & Spirit education trust qualifications.
Cecile, who is an expert in champagne, a certified wine teacher at the school and an approved staff educator in wine for Marks & Spencer, says: ‘i come from the Champagne area of France, and my dad worked in the distribution of champagne, so this runs in the family.
She began in the industry by importing and distributing champagne from small growers through her company, Champagne Par excellence. Luxury hotels such as the Dorchester and Claridges were among her clients.
‘When i ended up doing wine tastings for customers and training the staff in regards to champagne in general and small grower champagnes in particular, i realised my passion was in training and teaching.’
Cecile, who has a 15-year-old daughter, georgia, and a 12-year-old son, Joshua, launched Hampshire Wine School in September 2012, and since then she has seen it ‘grow and grow’.
She adds: ‘i have just received a certificate of excellence from trip Advisor and i’ve been headhunted to be a judge at the international glass of Bubbly competition in October. it’s lovely to be recognised by customers and by my peers.
‘i’m offering more and more courses, including gin and tonic tastings, whisky tasting and a lot more food and wine tastings.
‘in response to what our customers want, we are even doing an Asian takeaway food and wine pairing evening. People wanted to know how to pair spices and wine.’
the classes cater for all levels of knowledge and emphasise fun as well as education. Cecile says: ‘they’re very social and enjoyable, and that’s the aspect people really like.
‘it’s not pompous and pretentious, and you can end up making friends because it’s full of like-minded people.
‘Last July, we even celebrated our first wedding — two people who met at one of my courses. that’s just brilliant because even if you come on your own, you know you won’t be lonely. Winetasting is a social event.’ FOr more info log on to hampshirewineschool.com