This season'sgatherings

This is a social event and wine tasting like never before!

Sunday, September 20 · Blosson Yoga Studio behind The Peach Basket (soon to be La Bergerie and home of L'Atelier) at 334 W. Main St. Fredericksburg, TX

You've heard of blind dates. You know about speed dating. Both involve meeting strangers, making quick judgments, and hoping you don't regret your decisions later. Neither has exactly earned a reputation for being foolproof.

Fortunately, this kind of blind encounter comes with better odds.

The game begins with an expert lesson in blind tasting from two highly experienced sommeliers, Andre Boada and Kristi Mayfield. Then it's your turn to put your new skills to the test in a series of lightning rounds, tasting wines from cloaked bottles and seeing just how much you can figure out without the label giving anything away.

Bring your best instincts, your sharpest palate, and perhaps a healthy willingness to second-guess yourself. Collaboration and teamwork are encouraged—although there may be a little friendly competition along the way.

You'll leave with a few new tasting skills, a little more confidence at the table, and, ideally, some new company. No awkward follow-up text required.

Eight days on the Rhône and Saône, hosted by Andre — Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Avignon, and a private classical concert inside the Palais des Papes. From $5,802 per person.