Congratulations to Jane Owen for passing the Champagne Master Level exam with highest honors!
About Jane:
As a mother of three children that have recently ventured out on their own, I have found myself relishing more "me" time. I have always enjoyed and have been interested in learning more about wine, but only recently have I found the time to really indulge in the passion of wine.
Passion is an interesting word with so many connotations. To me having a passion for wine is more than just the enjoyment of a beverage with dinner. It means an interest and intensity that goes well beyond wine itself. The study of wine can transport you to another place and time. History, location, viticulture, geology, the people and cuisine are really what wine is about. The further you study, the more interesting it becomes; and the more passionate you become in every way.
I do not consider myself a professional in any way when it comes to wine. My public soirée into the wine world was quite happenstance. My excitement about studies in wine, champagne in particular, became known within my community. Several friends asked if I would share this knowledge in some way with them. This request evolved into an event that started as a casual tasting among friends. I now offer guided educational tastings of sparkling wines and champagne for groups as a charity event for non-profit organizations in our area. To date "Bubbly & Blade" has raised several thousand dollars for worthy causes in the Southern Indiana area.
Once you start wine studies, does it every really stop?
I am a Sabreur member of the Confrérie du Sabre D'or, however I'm embarrassed to say (or not; the study of anything has to begin somewhere) that the WSG Champagne ML course and exam is my first wine certification. I love taking on new challenges. I have found that studies with WSG; with it's distance learning, live webinars and study trips are a perfect fit and a tremendous opportunity.
I am currently enrolled in the Bourgogne ML course with the WSG as well as studying the coursework for the Certified Specialist of Wine with the Society of Wine Educators.
I have found that the WSG offers an all-encompassing educational wine experience. I was fortunate enough to experience one of the wine study trips to the Champagne region offered by the WSG after I completed the online instructor-led course. It was truly a capstone to the program that helped bring the information from this intensive study course to life. I look forward to future study courses and trips with this wonderful wine school.
