While some may believe that wine tasting is simply an enjoyable hobby, an after-work indulgence, or a unique cultural phenomenon, the art of wine is truly much more. Today, as the interest in wine continues to grow, students across the country are now pursuing this art as the main focus of their college studies. In community colleges across the country, students can study the art of wine tasting, making, and product distribution, which leads to an array of related careers.
Even amidst stressful and uncertain economic times, the wine industry is proving to stand strong, according to MSNBC. Recession-proof careers in the wine industry are continuing to grow. With myriad options and stable job security, the art of wine can open up incredible new pastures for today’s community college students.
Viticulture and Enology
One of the primary careers in the wine industry begins right at wine’s roots. Viticulture and Enology involve the study of grape growing and winemaking. Available at many regionally specific community colleges (especially in areas conducive to growing grapes), students can earn their degrees by learning about the complex details of wine harvesting. From Napa Valley College in California to Piedmont Community College in Virginia, students are preparing for a lucrative career at the core of the wine industry.
This video describes the winemaking program at Napa Valley College.
For example, students attending Surry Community College (SCC),