SDSU's Business of Wine Fall Certificate Program Courses Starting

According to the Wine Institute, California makes 90 percent of all U.S. wine and is the world’s fourth leading wine producer after Italy, Spain, and France.

To prepare students for success in this booming industry, San Diego State University’s College of Extended Studies offers a Professional Certificate in the Business of Wine, with fall semester courses starting Sept. 12.

“As the founder of a small company specializing in wine education programs on cruise ships, the program has given me an outstanding background of knowledge about the wine industry, wine making, and wine regions of the world,” said Jeffrey Maltzman, founder, Blend Craft Wines. “The courses are educational, entertaining and interactive and the professors are, without exception, top leaders in the Southern California wine industry.”

The comprehensive Business of Wine courses are geared for professionals and entrepreneurs in the wine, food, and hospitality fields who want to quickly expand their knowledge of industry topics. The certificate is directed to: restaurant owners and staff, winery employees, event planners, distribution and retail sales employees, wine bar owners and staff; plus anyone interested in moving into wine or hospitality careers, and wine enthusiasts who desire a professional-level education.

“The biggest strength of the program was the breadth of the courses,” said Grant Tondro, co-owner of The Barrel Room, Urge GastroPub, and Brothers Provisions. “If someone like me who’s already an industry professional has gaps to fill, there’s a course for them. The program is absolutely worth it and you can get out of it as much as you put into it.”

To earn a certificate, nine courses must be completed within two years. Core courses include Exploring Wine, Wine Making Behind the Scenes, Business Opportunities in the Wine Industry, and Dynamic Wine and Food Pairing. Also required are five electives, including three intensive courses. Newcomers must begin with the introductory course: Exploring Wine, which starts Oct. 5.

Students must be at least 21 years of age. For more information, email eyousif@mail.sdsu.edu, visit neverstoplearning.net/wine, or call (619) 594-1138.