How to Make Theory Stick (Even When It’s Dry)

Turn Forgettable Content Into Memorable Mastery Using Recall, Anchors, and Storytelling

Some wine theory makes your eyes light up. Other parts... well, not so much.

If you’ve ever found yourself rereading soil types for the third time and still zoning out, you’re not alone. Certain topics just feel dry — whether it's grape synonyms, wine laws, or the dozens of obscure AOPs that all start with “Côte.”

But here’s the thing: dry content doesn’t have to stay that way.

There are science-backed, brain-friendly ways to make even the most boring material stick — and maybe even make it fun.

Let’s walk through how.

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1. Use Active Recall (Not Passive Re-Reading)

We’re starting here because it’s the biggest game-changer.

Active recall is when you try to remember information from memory, without looking at your notes. It builds stronger brain connections than just rereading, highlighting, or passively watching videos.

Here’s how to use it with dry theory:

• Close your materials and try to list all the AOPs of the Rhône

• Recite everything you remember about German classifications

• Write down five things about loam soil without checking your book

You don’t need to get it perfect. The act of trying is what strengthens your memory.

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2. Anchor the Information to Something You Already Know

Memory works through association. That means if you can connect new information to something already in your brain, it becomes easier to recall.

Try this:

• Link soils to textures you’ve felt (chalk = dry and dusty, clay = sticky, slate = smooth and cold)

• Tie AOPs to people you know (make Madiran the “mad uncle” who only drinks Tannat)

• Match grape synonyms to characters or celebrities that represent them

These are memory anchors — they give your brain a place to hang the info instead of leaving it floating and forgettable.

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3. Turn It Into a Story

Humans are wired for stories. We remember narratives way better than isolated facts. So when theory feels stale, wrap it in a storyline.

For example:

“A storm is brewing in Chablis. The Kimmeridgian clay is soaked, the Chardonnay vines are clinging on, and the winemakers are holding their breath, hoping frost doesn’t strike again…”

Or create a silly adventure:

“Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre walk into a bar. The bartender says, ‘Sorry, we only serve structured blends with aging potential.’”

It doesn’t have to be clever. It just has to be memorable to you.

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4. Use Mnemonics, Maps, and Mind Games

Sometimes, you just need a trick to remember all the little things.

• Mnemonics: Create acronyms or weird phrases (ex: “Some Chefs Make Fat Duck Rillettes” for St-Émilion’s classification tiers)

• Mind maps: Start with a region and branch out to grapes, laws, soils, and producers

• Teach it: Explaining it to someone else forces you to organize and recall the info clearly

Try a few — and stick with the ones that actually help you retain.

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5. Let Humor and Movement Help

You are allowed to laugh.

You are allowed to make your flashcards absurd.

You are allowed to study standing up, walking around, or acting things out like a theater student prepping for their big break.

Dry theory becomes way more tolerable when you bring in humor, voice, or movement.

Pair German wine laws with funny voices.

Make a dance move for each DOCG.

Whatever helps your brain play — let it.

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6. Review with a Real-Life Lens

One of the best ways to make theory stick is to ask:

Where would I actually use this?

• In a tasting group?

• Teaching a staff training?

• Writing a wine list?

• Answering an oral exam question?

When you study with context in mind, the information feels more relevant — and your brain treats it as important.

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How to Make Theory Stick: Final Thoughts

If you’ve struggled with theory before, here’s your permission slip: It’s not because you’re not smart enough.

It’s not because you’re not trying hard enough.

It’s probably because you haven’t been taught how to make it stick.

Use active recall. Build memory anchors. Tell stories.

Make it weird, make it personal, and make it yours.

You don’t need to study harder. You need to study smarter, for your brain.

And if you need help finding the right approach for you, I’m here to help.