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Kerry Wilkinson, Cassandra Collins, David Jeffery, and Paul Grbin

Think about your favourite wine. Imagine the brilliance of its colour in the glass, the ripe fruit aromas on the nose, a hint of toasty oak and lingering tannins on the back palate. Perhaps you like a specific wine, but can’t pinpoint the reason why. The attributes that make wine so enjoyable are achieved through the expertise of viticulturists and winemakers, whose decision-making in the vineyard and winery is underpinned by science – to be precise, viticulture and oenology.

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Think about your favourite wine. Imagine the brilliance of its colour in the glass, the ripe fruit aromas on the nose, a hint of toasty oak and lingering tannins on the back palate. Perhaps you like a specific wine, but can’t pinpoint the reason why. The attributes that make wine so enjoyable are achieved through the expertise of viticulturists and winemakers, whose decision-making in the vineyard and winery is underpinned by science – to be precise, viticulture and oenology.

The finer details can take years to learn, but in a matter of weeks this course will give you a broad understanding of the principles and practices used to grow grapes and make wine, and their impact on wine appearance, aroma, flavour and taste. You’ll also gain an appreciation for how cutting-edge research is helping to secure the future sustainability of the global wine industry. Whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned oenophile,, this course is for anyone who loves wine and wine tasting. You’ll even get to make your own wine-- virtually at least!

Confidently describe wine appearance, aroma, flavour and taste.

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Evaluate and communicate the various sensory attributes of wine using formal descriptive language
  • Explain the structure, growth and development of grapevines and objectives of different vineyard management practices
  • Contrast the different winemaking techniques employed in the production of different styles of wine

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores the finer details of winemaking, which is the standard in the wine industry
Taught by experienced instructors, who are recognized for their work in viticulture and oenology
Develops skills in describing wine appearance, aroma, flavor and taste, which is a core skill for wine enthusiasts and professionals
Examines the impact of viticulture and oenology on wine quality, which is highly relevant to winemakers and wine enthusiasts
Provides hands-on experience in making wine virtually, which is unique and engaging for learners

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Reviews summary

Comprehensive introduction to wine science

According to learners, the "World of Wine: From Grape to Glass" course offers a largely positive experience, providing a solid foundation in viticulture and oenology. Students particularly appreciate the structured approach, the detailed explanations of complex processes, and the course's ability to bridge the gap between casual wine appreciation and the technical science behind it. The instructors are frequently praised for their knowledge and engaging delivery. While some notes mention the workload or desire for even deeper dives into specific regional wines, the overall consensus highlights the course's value for both beginners and those seeking a deeper scientific understanding of wine production and sensory evaluation.
More science than regional wine specifics.
"Note that the focus is heavily on the science (viticulture/oenology), less on specific wine regions or styles."
"If you're looking for a tour of the world's wine regions, this isn't it. It's about the 'how' and 'why'."
"Wish they included a bit more on tasting specific examples or regional characteristics."
"The course title hints at 'World of Wine', but the content is more foundational science than global exploration."
Engaging interactive winemaking simulation.
"The virtual winemaking exercise was a fun and practical way to apply what we learned."
"Really enjoyed the interactive element of making my own wine virtually."
"It helped visualize the impact of different decisions in the winemaking process."
"A unique and memorable part of the course experience."
Suitable for novices and those with prior knowledge.
"As a novice, I found the pace and content accessible, building my knowledge step-by-step."
"Even with some prior wine knowledge, I learned new scientific details and deepened my understanding significantly."
"It manages to cater to both beginners and people looking for more technical insights into wine science."
"Started with basic wine knowledge and now feel like I have a solid scientific base."
Helps develop formal wine description skills.
"I feel much more confident describing wine using proper terminology after this course."
"The sections on sensory evaluation were particularly useful for articulating what I taste and smell."
"Finally understand how to break down and talk about the different attributes of wine systematically."
"This course equipped me with the language to evaluate wine formally."
Instructors are knowledgeable and engaging.
"The lecturers are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, making even complex topics easy to digest."
"Found the instructors very clear and engaging. Their expertise really shines through."
"Great teaching! The way the concepts were explained helped me understand the science behind wine making."
"Their passion for the subject is infectious and kept me motivated throughout the course."
Provides detailed look at grape growing & winemaking.
"The course covers everything from grape structure to winemaking techniques in great detail, providing a comprehensive overview."
"I was impressed by the depth of coverage on both the viticulture and oenology aspects; it was much more than I expected."
"Learned so much about the science behind the wine in my glass. The explanations were thorough."
"It really explains the 'why' behind different wine characteristics based on vineyard and winery practices."
Content is dense; requires dedicated study time.
"The amount of information covered each week is quite extensive, requiring significant study time to keep up."
"Felt a bit overwhelmed by the sheer volume of technical detail sometimes."
"Definitely need to set aside dedicated time to absorb all the concepts presented."
"It's a serious course, not just a casual overview, so be prepared for the study load."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in World of Wine: From Grape to Glass with these activities:
Review a chapter of chemistry
Review a chapter of your high school chemistry textbook to better prepare for the course.
Browse courses on Chemistry
Show steps
  • Choose a chapter to review.
  • Read the chapter.
  • Take notes on the chapter.
  • Complete any practice problems.
  • Review flash cards with definitions of the key terms in the chapter.
Gather your course materials
Acquire all of the textbooks, references, and supplies you will need for this course to help you stay organized and prepared.
Show steps
  • Purchase the required textbooks.
  • Gather any other required materials, such as a lab coat, safety goggles, or a calculator.
  • Set up a dedicated study space.
  • Create a schedule for studying and completing assignments.
Watch a video on the basics of viticulture
Increase your understanding of the science of growing grapes by watching a tutorial video.
Browse courses on Viticulture
Show steps
  • Search for a video on the basics of viticulture.
  • Watch the video.
  • Take notes on the key points.
  • Review your notes.
Seven other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all ten activities
Understand Viticulture and Enology Terms
Master the terminology used in viticulture and oenology to better understand course materials and communicate effectively.
Browse courses on Viticulture
Show steps
  • Create a glossary of terms
  • Practice using terms in written or verbal discussions
Distinguish Different Grape Varieties
Enhance your knowledge of different grape varieties and their characteristics, which will aid in understanding wine flavors and styles.
Show steps
  • Attend a wine tasting event
  • Research different grape varieties
  • Experiment with wine varietals at home
Practice identifying different grape varieties
To help your education continue outside the classroom, practice identifying different grape varieties using an online resource.
Show steps
  • Find an online resource with images of different grape varieties.
  • Study the images and learn to identify the different varieties.
  • Take a quiz to test your knowledge.
Explore Wine Producing Regions
Expand your understanding of global wine regions, their unique characteristics, and how these factors influence wine flavor profiles.
Browse courses on Wine Regions
Show steps
  • Study wine maps and atlases
  • Research specific wine regions
  • Experience wines from diverse regions through wine tastings
Read "Wine Folly: The Essential Guide to Wine"
Expand your knowledge of wine by reading this book, which provides a comprehensive overview of the subject.
Show steps
  • Purchase or borrow the book.
  • Read the book.
  • Take notes on the key points.
  • Review your notes.
Write a report on the different winemaking techniques
Compose a report to review the various winemaking techniques, expanding upon your understanding of the course material.
Browse courses on Winemaking
Show steps
  • Research the different winemaking techniques.
  • Compare and contrast the different techniques.
  • Write a report on your findings.
Make your own wine (virtually)
Using a winemaking simulation, create a virtual batch of wine to apply the principles and practices of winemaking to your own project.
Browse courses on Winemaking
Show steps
  • Find a winemaking simulation online.
  • Follow the instructions to create a virtual batch of wine.
  • Monitor the fermentation process.
  • Taste the wine and make adjustments as needed.
  • Bottle the wine.

Career center

Learners who complete World of Wine: From Grape to Glass will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Winemaker
A Winemaker is responsible for overseeing all aspects of wine production, from growing the grapes to bottling the finished product. This course would be a great fit for someone who wants to learn more about the science behind winemaking and how to create high-quality wines.
Viticulturist
A Viticulturist is responsible for growing grapes for wine production. This course would be a great fit for someone who wants to learn more about the science behind grape growing and how to produce high-quality grapes.
Sommelier
A Sommelier is a wine expert who is responsible for selecting, storing, and serving wine in restaurants and other hospitality establishments. This course would be a great fit for someone who wants to learn more about wine and how to pair it with food.
Wine Educator
A Wine Educator is responsible for teaching people about wine. This course would be a great fit for someone who wants to learn more about wine and how to share their knowledge with others.
Wine Writer
A Wine Writer is responsible for writing about wine for magazines, newspapers, and websites. This course would be a great fit for someone who wants to learn more about wine and how to communicate their knowledge with others.
Wine Researcher
A Wine Researcher is responsible for conducting research on wine production, grape growing, and other aspects of the wine industry. This course would be a great fit for someone who wants to learn more about the science behind wine and how to improve wine production.
Wine Consultant
A Wine Consultant is responsible for providing advice to wineries and other businesses on wine production, grape growing, and other aspects of the wine industry. This course would be a great fit for someone who wants to learn more about the wine industry and how to provide expert advice.
Wine Importer/Exporter
A Wine Importer/Exporter is responsible for importing and exporting wine. This course would be a great fit for someone who wants to learn more about the wine industry and how to import and export wine.
Wine Distributor
A Wine Distributor is responsible for distributing wine to retailers and other businesses. This course would be a great fit for someone who wants to learn more about the wine industry and how to distribute wine.
Wine Retailer
A Wine Retailer is responsible for selling wine to consumers. This course would be a great fit for someone who wants to learn more about the wine industry and how to sell wine.
Food and Beverage Manager
A Food and Beverage Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of food and beverage operations in a restaurant or other hospitality establishment. This course may be helpful for someone who wants to learn more about wine and how to manage a food and beverage operation.
Chef
A Chef is responsible for preparing and cooking food in a restaurant or other hospitality establishment. This course may be helpful for someone who wants to learn more about wine and how to pair it with food.
Restaurant Manager
A Restaurant Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of a restaurant's operations, including food and beverage service. This course may be helpful for someone who wants to learn more about wine and how to manage a restaurant.
Hotel Manager
A Hotel Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of a hotel's operations, including food and beverage service. This course may be helpful for someone who wants to learn more about wine and how to manage a hotel.
Event Planner
An Event Planner is responsible for planning and executing events, including weddings, corporate events, and private parties. This course may be helpful for someone who wants to learn more about wine and how to plan events that include wine.

Featured in The Course Notes

This course is mentioned in our blog, The Course Notes. Read one article that features World of Wine: From Grape to Glass:

Reading list

We've selected 12 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in World of Wine: From Grape to Glass.
This is the classic reference book on wine, and it is an essential resource for any wine lover. It provides comprehensive information on all aspects of wine, from the history of winemaking to the different grape varieties and wine regions around the world.
This comprehensive encyclopedia of wine that covers everything from the history of wine to the different grape varieties and wine regions around the world. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about wine.
Comprehensive guide to wine grapes. It covers over 1,300 grape varieties, and it provides information on their origins, flavors, and uses.
This is another classic reference book on wine, and it is even more comprehensive than The World Atlas of Wine. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the history, culture, and science of wine.
This comprehensive encyclopedia of wine that covers everything from the history of wine to the different grape varieties and wine regions around the world. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn more about wine.
Great read for anyone who loves wine. It is written in a very engaging style, and it provides a good understanding of the different factors that affect the taste of wine.
Great all-around guide to wine. It covers everything from the basics of wine tasting to the different wine regions around the world. It great resource for both beginners and experienced wine lovers.
Great guide to wine for travelers. It covers the different wine regions around the world, and it provides information on the best wines to try in each region.

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