One of the main objectives of the Orange County Wine Society (OCWS) is to promote the knowledge of wine, winemaking and wine appreciation. The OCWS strives to provide activities and information for our members where they can gain such knowledge and have fun doing so.
In addition to wine knowledge provided by the OCWS, below are other sources where members can seek to increase their wine education through industry-recognized certifications and programs. There may be some limited on-site courses at this time, but online courses are available and you may be able to request notification when on-site courses begin again.
WINE SPIRIT AND EDUCATION TRUST (WSET): www.wsetglobal.com
An internationally recognized organization that provides certification courses in wine, spirits and sake. Online courses are available in some areas while on-site courses are postponed until further notice.
COURT OF MASTER SOMMELIERS: www.mastersommeliers.org
The global standard in wine and spirits certifications for individuals pursuing a career in the hospitality industry. Check for current availability of on-site courses.
UC DAVIS CONTINUING AND PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION: https://cpe.ucdavis.edu/areas-study/winemaking
UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education has a long-time history of providing world-class enology and viticulture education. The Certificate in Winemaking is offered online but there are additional on-sight classes that are also offered typically over a weekend (check for when these will become available again).
WINE SCHOLAR GUILD (WSG): www.winescholarguild.org
An international organization offering region-focused study programs (such as French Wine Scholar, Spanish Wine Scholar, etc). They also offer master-level programs and travel study programs. These programs may be offered online or onsite (when appropriate).
MT. SAN JACINTO COLLEGE: https://www.msjc.edu/wineindustryhospitality/index.html
MTSAC offers a collection of courses in the areas of Viticulture, Enology, and Wine Technology as well as courses in Wine Hospitality and Salesmanship. Many of these classes are offered at wineries in Temecula.
NAPA VALLEY WINE ACADEMY: https://napavalleywineacademy.com/
A great site for those pursing wine education as a wine enthusiast, or pursuing an industry-level certification. They offer courses from WSET, WSG, and many others that are both online, as well as onsite.
WINE FOLLY: https://winefolly.com/
This is a great site for beginner wine enthusiasts. Wine Folly offers online classes, blogs, books, wine region maps, and other wine tasting accessories.
If you have any questions about these wine education resources, or have additional suggestions, please contact irene@ocws.org.