The course introduces students to viniculture and viticulture and the sensory evaluation of wine. It concentrates on the sensory elements of wine that make it a global economic and culture phenomenon with emphasis on Old World and New World traditions, food pairing, and trends in the wine business. It discusses the climates, topographies, and other natural conditions that make some regions more suited to certain wine cultivation than others and how these conditions are replicated around the world. It covers the important role wine plays in the delivery of dining experiences in both hospitality enterprises as well as retail and social experiences. The wine industry is replete with specific and technical vocabulary that when mastered enables participants to engage in wine activities knowledgeably and successfully, whether as a consumer, host or professional. All students enrolled will receive a one year free subscription to Wine Spectator.
This class combines Penn State students taking the class for credit with adults from the community taking it for non-credit. Non-credits students have the option to test their learning each week with online quizzes.
Registration deadline is 11:59 pm, August 24, 2026. For registration after this date, contact Keriann Smith at kms6269@psu.edu.
Program questions, please contact: Donna Quadri-Felitti, PhD, Marvin Ashner Director and Associate Professor, School of Hospitality dlq3@psu.edu
Penn State Affiliate - $399.00 + Cvent Fees
General Public - $429.00 + Cvent Fees
Cvent Fees $2.47 per registrant fee + 2.6% credit card processing fee.
Payment Online payment accepted at the time of registration using a Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express.
Cancellation If you need to cancel your registration, please send your written request no later than August 26, 2026, by email to kms6269@psu.edu. A $50 administrative fee will be charged for your cancellation.
Personal Information
Penn State encourages persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about the physical access provided, please contact the program plannerat least 2 weeks prior to the start of the program to allow sufficient time to effectively meet your access needs.