WineFor the most part, I’ve taught myself about wine. I devour books about wine. I taste taste taste and taste some more. And I interact with winemakers, winery owners and other wine bloggers/lovers/writers.

I’ve taken a few local classes, including those at Stony Brook University’s Center for Food, Wine and Culture. And, they’ve been a lot of fun and educational as well.

And, some day I hope to take some formal classes towards some sort of "degree." But right now it’s not a priority — though if I had time to take a two-hour train ride into Manhattan every weekend for six months to take an expensive series of classes I certainly would.

But, I’d not be doing it for the little letters after my name. I’d be doing it for my own education and for fun.
 
I’m only ranting about this because I’ve had editors tell me that they do not want me writing wine tasting notes because I don’t have an MW or sommelier title after my name. And just today, made a point (not in a good way) of pointing out that I’m self taught.

I taste what I taste. I write what I taste. And I stand behind what I write. Does it really matter to you, my readers, that I don’t have a formal wine education? I’m curious…