Oenology: The History, Culture & Business of Wine

In this introductory survey of the history, culture, and business of the French wine industry, you will gain first-hand knowledge and practical experience in one of Europe's oldest international commercial and gastronomic ventures. You first become familiar with the origins, history and role of wine and its production in European society from Roman times to the 20th century. You then learn how different wines are actually made, a process you will trace from first planting, to vine and grape growth, through to harvesting and the process called vinification - the various stages between picking the grapes and bottling the wine.

You will also gain a basic knowledge in wine chemistry and fermentation and an appreciation of the concept of terroir all of which contribute to the many and varied attributes of wine products. You will become knowledgeable in the structure of the French wine industry, through learning of France's varied wine regions, AOC and other qualitative classifications, and the many grape varieties used to make wine in Europe. At this stage, you will be introduced to the techniques of evaluating wines through a sensory study of wine color, aroma, viscosity and taste. And you will become able to speak about wine, using a specific and technical terminology.

You will unravel the real and apparent complexities of the legislation, regulation and taxation governing wine production and marketing including the mysterious rules governing the names and labels of French wines. And you will learn about the money, business and politics behind wine production and sales in global markets today. You will also consider the impact of wine on health and society today. Primary focus is placed on the French wine industry but you will also look at recent trends and developments in other European markets, as well as in some notable non-European ones.