Kristel Balcaen

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Kristel Balcaen (copyright: Wout Hendrickx)

Who is Kristel Balcaen?

Kristel Balcaen is a Belgian wine writer, educator, and consultant with an impressive list of credentials. She holds the title of Sommelier-Conseil, has won international awards for her top scores in the Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Level 4 Diploma, and was elected Champagne Ambassador and Wine Lady of the Year in 2018. Since 2023, she has also been a student in the prestigious Master of Wine program. Kristel is also a herbalist, a fan of delicious and healthy food, an enthusiastic hobby cook, and an urban gardener. In October 2023, her first book, Wijnboek voor foodies, was published by Uitgeverij Pelckmans.

Since her studies in English and German language and literature, Kristel Balcaen has been professionally active in higher education for over 25 years, both as a teacher and in organizational roles. She has worked extensively in international cooperation, communication, business, and alumni relations, and played a key role in the success of some of Flanders' largest professional bachelor programs, such as Multimedia & Communication Technology and the renowned Kortrijk-based game program, Digital Arts & Entertainment. Her passion and attention to detail have been noticed both in her teaching and wine career.

In 2006, one of her mobility projects was awarded the 'European Quality in Mobility Award' by the European Commission for its exceptional concept, execution, and impact. She subsequently won the award for the best Sommelier-Conseil thesis at the Université du Vin in Suze-la-Rousse, France, and became the only woman in Belgium to ever win the Champagne Ambassador competition, later earning silver in the European final. Since then, she has been named Wine Lady of the Year 2018, inducted as Dame Chevalier in the Ordre des Coteaux de Champagne, Ambassador in the Archiconfrérie Saint-Vincent de la Champagne, and Chevalier in the Baronie Gent of the Commanderie des Costes du Rhône.

Above all, Kristel is an enthusiast for life, wine, delicious food, and people—and for the magic that happens when you bring them all together. This enthusiasm shines through in abundance in every presentation, keynote, masterclass, or workshop she delivers.

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    10 life lessons I learned from wine.

    'Ten life lessons I learned from wine' is a captivating keynote that takes you on a journey of self-discovery and reflection, inspired by Kristel's winding path through the rich and diverse international world of wine. What can we learn from the growth process of grapes, winemaking, and years of dedication to professional tasting and enjoyment?

    From aperitifs as an essential part of your day to the importance of focus, the people you surround yourself with, generosity, self-deprecation, and perseverance. Each of these life lessons is illustrated with a compelling story, a sparkling anecdote, or, if desired, even with a matching wine. This can be done during the presentation or during an informal drink or guided tasting afterwards.

    In short, a delightful and educational keynote where we learn about wine, peek behind the scenes, and gain inspiration for our own lives and work.

    Through roses and sunshine - Learning to taste wine through wine aromas

    Dive into the enchanting world of aromas and flavors in wine and cuisine! Under the expert guidance of Wine Lady and herbalist Kristel Balcaen, we explore aromas in wine and draw connections to ingredients in the kitchen. Through practical exercises suitable for both beginners and advanced participants, we refine our senses and deepen our knowledge of wine.

    Prepare for a flavorful journey, filled with tips that will not only stimulate your senses but also assist you in choosing the right wine for a dish, both at home and in restaurants.

    Book presentation 'Wine Book for Foodies' (with or without tasting)

    Wine and food are closely intertwined, and we love to be surprised by a delicious meal with a glass of exquisite wine. But how do you know which wine pairs best with your dish - or vice versa? Kristel explains this in detail using a clear three-step method and her unique wine style matrix. Richly illustrated with the most food-friendly grapes and both classic and innovative pairings.

    This theme can be presented as a lecture, with or without a wine tasting or reception afterward. It is also suitable as a practical workshop or team-building activity, where the information is immediately tested in practice with suitable wines. Collaboration with a chef or restaurant is also possible, with snacks or dishes illustrating the theory in a tasty way.

Great that we were able to work on this with you, with all your enthusiasm, knowledge, and openness. Always wonderful to collaborate with you!

Marie D.

PR and event coordinator

foto van micro

Super thanks! It was not only educational but also very pleasant.

Carine P.

Corporate leader

Thank you very much for the wonderful afternoon yesterday. Every participant was full of praise, and many told me afterwards that they learned incredibly much. You present a quite challenging subject matter in a very didactic and understandable way.

Gido V.

Chairperson