Nothing brings people together like great food and drinks!

Explore new cuisines and baking techniques with others and enjoy what you prepare together. Or skip to cocktail hour with our wine and beer appreciation classes!

students in a cooking class

Upcoming Courses

Cooking Courses

Celebrate the season with a hands-on holiday charcuterie experience! In this festive workshop, you’ll learn to pair seasonal flavors and balance sweet and savory bites using fruits, jams, honeys, and nuts. Discover cutting and styling techniques to create eye-catching layouts with flow, texture, and color that capture the magic of the holidays. Then, assemble your own show-stopping holiday board step-by-step — complete with elegant garnishes and creative touches perfect for entertaining or gifting.

*Food and Board provided.
#37781, Commercial Avenue Campus, 12/13, Saturday, 10 AM-2 PM Instructor: Leighanne Dockerty
It’s a two-night series that’ll show you some new recipes to liven up your holiday table! On day one we’ll get prepped for big day, making things go much more smoothly on the Holiday. We’ll turkey prep and make stock from the trim, put together the best dinner rolls and start on a side, appetizer and dessert. The next day the bird goes in the oven (and takes much less time than you’d think) and we’ll assemble and cook the rest for the feast!
#35068, Truax-Main Building, 11/11 and 11/12, Tuesday and Wednesday, 5:30-8:30 PM Instructor: Brad Kahn
Lebanese cooking is Mediterranean at its finest! We’ll whip up a healthy chicken dinner with spicy potatoes and salad, and a flatbread you may not think of as breakfast, but the Lebanese do, so maybe ditch the bagel some morning and try it!
#37239, Truax-Main Building, 12/2, Tuesday, 5:30-8:30 PM Instructor: Brad Kahn
In this hands-on course, you’ll discover the art and science of charcuterie. Over five hours of guided instruction, you’ll explore cheeses, cured meats, accompaniments, flavor pairings, design principles, and styling techniques. You’ll learn how to craft visually stunning and delicious boards for any occasion — from intimate gatherings to large-scale grazing tables.

*Food and Board provided.
#67234, Commercial Avenue Campus, 2/10 and 2/11, Tuesday and Wednesday, 5:30-8:30 PM Instructor: Leighanne Dockerty
#67235, Commercial Avenue Campus, 3/23 and 3/24, Monday and Tuesday, 5:30-8:30 PM Instructor: Leighanne Dockerty
With a little practice, pasta making is not difficult. We’ll show you what the right dough should look (and feel) like. After that, we’ll knock out some sauces that go beyond basic marinara, and an easy focaccia that’s a change from the big fluffy ones on the internet these days.
#67195, Truax-Main Building, 2/24, Tuesday, 5:30-8:30 PM Instructor: Brad Kahn
Ready to expand your grilling skills? Discover how cultures around the world cook over fire as you explore bold and flavorful dishes from the Far East, the Middle East, and south of the border. You’ll learn to create easy, delicious meals that bring international flair to your next backyard cookout.
#64808, Truax-Main Building, 4/21, Tuesday, 5:30-8:30 PM Instructor: Brad Kahn
Turn your culinary dreams into a published reality! In this inspiring and practical class, you'll learn how to transform your unique food ideas into a beautifully crafted cookbook. Discover the secrets to developing and testing recipes that readers will love, gain insider tips on styling and photographing your dishes like a pro, and master the art of structuring your book for maximum impact. Whether you're planning to self-publish or pitch to major publishers, this course provides all the tools and guidance you need to make your cookbook a success. Let’s bring your vision to life—one delicious page at a time!
Future offerings will be posted here

Baking Courses

This cookie is perhaps the most difficult to make correctly without professional-level techniques. Even though there are only four ingredients, the method of putting those ingredients together is extremely technical. We’ll go through the process step-by-step so that you learn how to make this French cookie correctly.
#37547, Truax-Main Building, 11/3, Monday, 6-9 PM Instructor: Avery DeJesus
Roll up your sleeves and dive into the sweet world of homemade cinnamon rolls! In this hands-on class, you’ll learn how to mix, knead, and roll dough from scratch, create a delicious cinnamon-sugar filling, and master the perfect swirl. While your rolls rise and bake, you’ll also whip up a rich glaze or cream cheese frosting to finish them off. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your baking skills, you’ll leave with a batch of warm, gooey cinnamon rolls—and the confidence to recreate them anytime at home.
#37608, Truax-Main Building, 12/1, Monday, 5:30-6:30 PM Instructor: Avery DeJesus
In this class, you will learn how to make cakes from scratch. We will discuss different types of fillings as well as make American buttercream. Join us in Jr Chef: Cakes 2 class to layer and decorate your cake.
#35260, Truax-Main Building, 11/15, Saturday, 9 AM-1 PM Instructor: Avery DeJesus
Let your creativity soar with this cake decorating class! With your cake from our Jr Chef: Cakes 1 class you will learn and apply basic techniques of icing cakes and basic piping techniques. If not signed up for Jr Chef: Cakes 1, please bring 2-8inch round cakes for class
#35258, Truax-Main Building, 11/22, Saturday, 9 AM-1 PM Instructor: Avery DeJesus
Learn the basics of cake decorating: creating, outlining and filling-in designs, writing messages, star and shell borders, buttercream flowers, stems, and leaves. Learn and practice techniques and then apply them to your own cake. The emphasis of this course is on design and composition. Students are expected to provide some supplies, such as cake, bags, and decorating tips.
Future offerings posted here

Beer and Wine Courses

Take a Pinot Noir tasting trip to various locations around the world where you will learn about the rich differences of this most popular grape variety. You will taste Pinot Noir from various regions such as California, France and more. Compare notes with classmates and engage in a lively discussion about which "Pinot" is the best. Please join us for a wine exploration of the very popular cabernet wine that promises to be fun and educational.
#35264, Commercial Avenue Campus, 10/28, Tuesday, 6-8 PM Instructor: Robert Taylor
During this five week class with commercial winemaker Rob Lewis of Lewis Station Winery and Stable Rock Winery, this winemaking course covers the full winemaking process: from fermentation to bottling. Learn techniques to start or improve your own home winemaking while creating your own wine during class in small teams and hone your wine evaluation skills with topics on sensory evaluation, wine making knowledge and learning some of the secrets to food and wine pairing. Students will get to take some wine home to enjoy.
#35110, Commercial Avenue Campus, 11/9-12/114, Sunday, 11 AM-1 PM Instructor: Rob Lewis
Sip, swirl, and paint! Join us for a relaxing and creative watercolor workshop at Lewis Station Winery in downtown Lake Mills. In this workshop you'll learn watercolor techniques to create a beautiful painting of a koi fish, perfect for beginners and seasoned artists alike. Enjoy step-by-step instruction and a glass of Lewis Station's award-winning wine. All supplies are provided; just bring your creativity and come ready to unwind.
Eventbrite, Lewis Station Winery in Lake Mills, 11/9, Sunday, 11 AM-2 PM Instructor: Alfredo Rodriguez
Embark on a flavorful journey through Portugal with "Tour of Portugal: 4 Wines & Regions"! Sip your way from the crisp, refreshing Vinho Verde of the north to the bold reds of Alentejo in the south. Discover the rich, fortified tradition of world-famous Port from the Douro Valley and end with the complex sweetness of island-made Madeira. A delicious exploration of Portugal’s most iconic wine regions—all in one glass!
#37039, Commercial Avenue Campus, 11/15, Saturday, 12:30-2:30 PM Instructor: Rob Lewis
If you have ever been curious as to whether that expensive bottle of bubbly is truly worth it, now you can find out! In this class, members will sample French Champagne along with other sparkling white wines such as Italian Prosecco and Spanish Cava at different price points. There will definitely be some lively discussions among your fellow classmates. So join us for a wine exploration that just might change your mind about cost versus quality when it comes to your wine budget. Some wine tasting experience would be beneficial but not mandatory.
#35070, Commercial Avenue Campus, 11/18, Tuesday, 6-8 PM Instructor: Robert Taylor
Explore the wine regions of the Pacific Northwest where you will learn about the rich and historic traditions of some of the area’s finest wine regions, including the Willamette Valley, Columbia valley and more. You will taste red and white wine varietals and rare sparkling wines, compare notes, and engage in a lively discussion with your fellow classmates. Please join us for a wine exploration of this great wine region that promises to be a fun introduction to a famous and noteworthy wine region. Some wine tasting experience would be beneficial but is not necessary.
#35080, Commercial Avenue Campus, 12/2, Tuesday, 6-8 PM Instructor: Robert Taylor
Unleash your inner winemaker in this interactive and exciting class! You’ll begin by sampling four distinct red wine varietals, learning the art and science of blending. Using small beakers, you’ll experiment with different combinations of the wines, refining your creation sip by sip until you’ve crafted the perfect blend. Once you’ve created your masterpiece, bottle it to take home and savor at your leisure! To add a little fun and friendly competition, I’ll sample each blend and award the “Best Blend” a special prize. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just love a creative challenge, this class is perfect for anyone looking to have a great time while learning about wine. Cheers to creating your own custom wine!
#37037, Commercial Avenue Campus, 12/6, Saturday, 12:30-2:30 PM Instructor: Rob Lewis
Take a wine tasting excursion through Spain and Portugal where you will learn about the rich and historic traditions of some of these countries’ finest wine regions, including Rioja, Duro and more. You will taste red and white wine varietals and Port, compare notes, and engage in a lively discussion with your fellow classmates. Please join us for a wine exploration of the Iberian Peninsula that promises to be a fun introduction to a famous and noteworthy region. Some wine tasting experience would be beneficial but is not necessary.
#35078, Commercial Avenue Campus, 12/9, Tuesday, 6-8 PM Instructor: Robert Taylor
Learn to evaluate and appreciate wine. Black glass is used so the taster doesn't know if it’s a white, rose’ or red wine. You get to learn the science of taste using a guide to evaluate the wine and then everyone guesses and the wine is revealed at the end of the class.
Future offerings posted here
“New World” and “Old World” are terms commonly used in the wine industry to distinguish between wines produced in different regions of the world. Old World pertains to traditional winemaking regions in places such as Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. These regions have a long history of winemaking, dating back thousands of years. New World refers to wines from the United States, Canada and others with more recent winemaking history. In this class, we’ll be comparing the same grape varietals from the Old World and the New World in a side-by-side comparison. Not only will you taste the difference, but Rob will lead you on a journey in understanding the differences from a historical perspective too.
#34038, Commercial Avenue Campus, 12/11, Thursday, 6-8 PM Instructor: Rob Lewis

Headshot of Robert Taylor
"It is important to me that students of my classes come away with good information and the confidence to explore the world of wine without worrying about the hype and pretense that often accompanies wine discussions."
Robert Taylor
Faculty, Madison College
Rob Lewis_Wine_CE_2025
"Life can be lived in a casual way, or with passion. You may be a lover of music, a foodie or wine enthusiast. This is why I teach wine education, my goal is to shape your experience of wine, from casual to a richer, more passionate love for wine.”
Rob Lewis
Faculty, Madison College

Sommelier Program

Step into the world of wine with confidence. In this beginner-friendly course, you’ll learn to taste wine like a professional, explore classic varietals, and debunk common wine myths. You’ll also gain a solid foundation in wine service and get introduced to the basics of food and wine pairing. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or exploring a career in hospitality or wine sales, this course is the perfect starting point. No prior experience needed. Upon completion, you’ll earn the Beginning Sommelier Badge and be prepared to advance to the next level.
#37255, Commercial Avenue Campus, 11/22, Saturday, 9 AM-5 PM Instructor: Rob Lewis
#37633, Commercial Avenue Campus, 12/13, Saturday, 9 AM-5 PM Instructor: Rob Lewis
This intermediate wine course builds on basic knowledge to explore the world of wine more deeply. Students learn about the major wine-producing countries, how climate and soil affect grape growing, and how different winemaking styles influence the finished wine. Structured tastings help sharpen your palate and develop professional-level sensory analysis skills. Completion of this course earns the Intermediate Sommelier Badge and prepares students for advance sommelier program.
#37782, Commercial Avenue Campus, 11/29, Saturday, 9 AM-5 PM Instructor: Rob Lewis
#67124, Commercial Avenue Campus, 2/21, Saturday, 9 AM-5 PM Instructor: Rob Lewis
#67125, Commercial Avenue Campus, 5/9, Saturday, 9 AM-5 PM Instructor: Rob Lewis
Master the art and science of wine. In this final level, you’ll dive deep into the major wine-producing countries—France, Italy, Spain, Argentina, the United States, and more—learning the regional differences, varietals, and vintage impacts that define great wines. You’ll explore advanced pairing strategies, refine your blind tasting skills, and gain practical sommelier experience. Completion of this course includes a written and blind tasting exam and earns you the Advanced Sommelier Badge, Level Three Certification, and the official Madison College Sommelier Pin—a mark of your accomplishment and expertise in the field.
#67241, Commercial Avenue Campus, 3/7 and 3/14, Saturday, 9 AM-5 PM, Exam, 3/15, Sunday 9-11 AM, Instructor: Rob Lewis

Becoming a Foodpreneur

Let Madison College help you create a plan to operate and manage an independent foodservice business! This program addresses mobile and stationary service models for entrepreneurs planning a food truck, cafe, catering service, coffee shop, popup restaurant, on-site culinary services, or festival vending. Foodpreneurs get in the kitchen to develop products and work through kitchen logistics. Receive hands-on training to practice appropriate kitchen conduct that optimizes efficiency and food safety. Students will conduct a market analysis, identify equipment and logistics needs, develop products and services, and create financial projections; all in the process of creating a business plan for a small business.

 

person inside a food truck giving food to customer

Let Madison College help you create a plan to operate and manage an independent foodservice business! This program addresses mobile and stationary service models for entrepreneurs planning a food truck, café, catering service, coffee shop, popup restaurant or festival vending. Foodpreneurs get in the kitchen to develop products and work through kitchen logistics. Receive hands-on training to practice appropriate kitchen conduct that optimizes efficiency and food safety. Students will conduct a market analysis, identify equipment and logistics needs, develop products and services, and create financial projections; all in the process of creating a business plan for a small business.
#66047, Commercial Avenue Campus, 1/26-3/9, Monday, 10 AM - 1 PM Instructor: Christine Ameigh

In kitchen sessions are held at In Person sessions are held at 5511 Monona Drive, Monona, WI
This 2 part course focuses on the application of business ideas including the practical realities of catering, festival vending, and operating a food truck or cart. Through our hands-on commissary you will learn methods in menu planning and production proven to maximize efficiency, food safety and profit, while developing and fine-tuning your dream.
#66073, Commercial Avenue Campus, 3/23-5/4, Monday, 10 AM - 1 PM Instructor: Christine Ameigh

In kitchen sessions are held at In Person sessions are held at 5511 Monona Drive, Monona, WI

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