Additional Information
In the winemaking business, your nose knows. If you've got a good sense
of smell and are sensitive to subtle flavors, you're off to a good start.
"Sensory attributes are the biggest part of the job," says viticultural
specialist Kevin Ker. He adds that knowledge of biological and chemical processes
is pretty essential, too.
There are three routes you can take to become a winemaker.
The first route is to take a university program in enology, then an entry-level
assistant winemaker job at a production winery. Graduate work and experience
will get you ready to take a job as a winemaker at a smaller winery. With
fame and fortune, you can go on to be a winemaker at a large well-known winery.
The second route is to work in a smaller winery and learn by doing. Many
famous winemakers have taken this route, usually picking up the education
along the way.
The third route is to branch out from an established career and enter the
wine business, learning to make wine by talking to others and practicing on
your own.
"If you're not afraid to work, it's not hard to get into the business.
The best way is to try to get a summer job at a harvest, and don't be afraid
to pick grapes, shovel tanks or drag hoses. This would be the first clue to
see if you like it," says winemaker Bill Crawford.
A degree in enology and viticulture is a great beginning to your career
as a winemaker.