Old vines: what are they and why do they matter?

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If you have any queries about this event, please call our Student Services team on 020 7089 3841 or email studentservicesteam@wsetglobal.com

Join Victoria Daskal DipWSET to explore the importance, history and myths surrounding old vines.

Event details

What defines an old vine? Why should producers care about preserving them? Does vine age really affect wine quality?

In this masterclass, Victoria Daskal will guide you through a tasting of wines made from old vines around the world, exploring what vine age means in different regions and why these vineyards are increasingly valued.

We’ll delve into the benefits and challenges of old vines, discussing their impact on sustainability, biodiversity, cultural heritage, and wine style.

Alongside the tasting, we’ll explore both the romanticism and the reality of working with old vineyards, offering a well-rounded introduction to this important topic in the world of wine.


Example wine list

  1. Ken Forrester ‘Sparklehorse’ 2022, Western Cape
  2. Tyrrell's VAT 1 Semillon 2018, Hunter Valley
  3. Yalumba ‘The Virgilius’ 2023, Eden Valley
  4. Pinea ‘Korde’ Rosé Clarete 2023, Ribera del Duero
  5. Château de Sabazan 2018, Saint Mont
  6. Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino 2022, Mendoza
  7. Juan Gil ‘Cuvée A’ 2022, Jumilla
  8. Feudi di San Gregorio ‘Serpico’ 2016, Campania

Tasting level

Intermediate: An in-depth exploration of a particular topic. Some prior knowledge is beneficial – such as a WSET Level 2 qualification – but these sessions will be enjoyable and educational for anyone with an interest in the subject.


About the presenter, Victoria Daskal DipWSET

Victoria Daskal DipWSET

Victoria is a wine writer, educator, presenter and consultant with over 15 years of experience in the wine industry.

In 2007-2008 Victoria travelled through 45 wine regions and 23 countries as part of a prestigious professional wine programme, the OIV MSc in International Wine Management. She began writing while on the road for Master of Wine Jancis Robinson’s publication, and moved to London to work with her on the wine knowledge platform, Purple Pages.

Victoria worked in fine wine sales, wine event management, and most recently was the Managing Editor of The World of Fine Wine magazine for six years.

In 2020 she launched a wine subscription club called Mummy Wine Club, combining her love of artisanal, high-quality wines made by small, family producers with creative cultural themes. Victoria’s curated selections based on Hemingway’s wines in A Moveable Feast, Ancient Wine Regions, and Volcanic Wines led to an award from Decanter Magazine and being listed by Stylist Magazine as Best Wine Club. Her business has since evolved from monthly wine boxes to wine masterclasses and tastings under the name Victoria Daskal Wine.

Upon completing the WSET Diploma with Merit, Victoria became a certified educator and teaches Levels 1-3 Award in Wines at WSET School in London.


Booking terms and conditions

Payment in full must be made at the time of booking and places are not confirmed until payment has been received. Unfortunately we cannot take provisional bookings.

Cancellations and transfers

  • Cancellations and transfers can be made up to two weeks before the event.
  • Cancellations within 10 working days are non-refundable and cannot be transferred to another event.
  • If you need to change a name on the booking, please give us as much notice as possible.
  • WSET School London reserves the right to cancel an event. If necessary, a full refund or transfer will be offered.

Please note: The sample list and speaker/s may be subject to change.

Contact us

If you have any queries about this event, please call our Student Services team on 020 7089 3841 or email studentservicesteam@wsetglobal.com