The Washington Wine Academy was incorporated as a Virginia State 501©3 non-profit in 1999 and has been educating wine lovers in the Washington, DC ever since. Founded by Jim Barker and four other wine enthusiasts who have since left for other ventures, WWA has been the top wine school since its inception, specializing in both serious education and casual fun events. Barker has remained dedicated the Washington Wine Academy (WWA), cultivating its growth and reputation in the growing DC wine scene. The faculty and staff have grown over the years to include the most talented, personable, and wine knowledgeable people in the DC area, ensuring optional experiences for our students, guests, and friends.

Washington Wine Academy became the 5th authorized U.S. Center to teach the prestigious Wine and Spirits Education Trust Curriculum, a program WWA continues to teach. Other certifications include those of the Society of Wine Educators, the French Wine Society, and more. These certifications join WWA’s extensive offerings of causal and fun single class subjects and offerings. For more information, please visit our “Current Classes” page or those dedicated to the specific certification.

In response to the increasing popularity of beer in the DC market, the DC School of Beer was created to serve as an educational resource for those looking to learn more about beer. Classes include introductory beer classes as well as themed classes, both regional or technical in topic. Class offerings will continue to expand in this exciting area. Please see our “DC School of Beer” page for more information.

In 2009, the Washington Wine Academy opened its Education Center, Washington, D.C.’s first brick and mortar Wine School. Located in Crystal City, just a few minutes driving or by metro across the Potomac from DC, the Center offers Washington Wine Academy opportunities to increase its offerings and expand its already established presence in the DC wine market. For more information, please visit our “Facility” page.

Cheers!

The Washington Wine Academy