BWTR 0014 - Mastering Spanish Wine CORE Class with a Master Sommelier
Course Description
Join Master Sommelier Laura Williamson as she highlights her favorite wines from Spain and discover firsthand why Spain continues to shine, delivering exceptional quality that outpaces the competition on value.
Wine experts have already discovered Spain’s pivot to sustainably farmed old, indigenous vines and lesser-known appellations. Come taste for yourself how this movement, born by the steadfast focus of innovative farmers pushing to raise the bar, has shifted Spain’s dominance beyond its historically renowned Rioja zone.
This class will dive into Catalonia, including Penedes and Priorat; Galicia, better known as Green Spain; and Ribera del Duero and greater Madrid.
The newly arrived wines to Arkansas featured in the class:
- Parés Baltà “Pink” Cava Penedes
- Zárate Albarino Rias Baixas
- Bernabeleva Navaherreros Blanco Madrid
- Parés Baltà Cosmic Penedes
- Bodegas Olivares Rosado Jumilla
- Descendientes de J. Palacios “Petalos” Bierzo
- Dominio Romano "Camino Romano” Ribero del Duero
- Gratavinum “2πr” Priorat
Laura Williamson, MS, CWE
Laura Williamson, MS, CWE is a Northwest Arkansas native and one of only 36 women in the world to earn the prestigious Master Sommelier title. She achieved this distinction by passing what Forbes called “the world’s toughest wine exam” at a time when only a handful of women held the credential.
Laura built her career by directing Italian and German wine import portfolios throughout the United States and leading beverage programs for Michelin Three-Star, New York Times Four-Star, and Forbes Five-Star properties in New York City. She later returned to Arkansas with a mission to expand access to exceptional artisan wines and world-class wine education.
As Partner of Artisan Fine Wine Distributors, Laura introduces industry professionals and wine enthusiasts to distinctive producers, rare grape varieties, and emerging wine regions from around the globe. Through thoughtfully curated portfolios, she inspires discovery and helps clients develop a deeper appreciation for wine.
Laura also advises private clients, consults with hospitality professionals, and teaches educational programs that highlight lesser-known regions, unique varietals, food pairings, and elevated guest experiences. She regularly shares her expertise through speaking engagements, industry training, and wine education initiatives.
National media outlets including CBS, FOX, NBC, Forbes, and Wine Spectator have featured Laura and her work. She also serves as an industry consultant and adjunct faculty member at the Institute of Culinary Education (ICE) in New York.
Cost: $65.00
Day/Date: Thursday, October 15, 2026
Time: 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Ages: 21+ (I.D. required)
Location:
Brightwater: A Center for the Study of Food
801 SE 8th Street
Bentonville, AR 72712
Contact Information:
(479) 631-8600
brightwater@nwacc.edu
Allergy Alert!
Please be advised that our food may have come in contact with or contain dairy, eggs, wheat/gluten, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, soy, or sesame. If you have allergies, please email brightwater@nwacc.edu about the ingredients used in this class before deciding to attend.