Wine Quality Control

This course builds on the Principles of Winemaking course and is ideal for those with experience of winemaking or have a strong interest in wine chemistry and microbiology. 

The aims of this one-day intensive course are to provide a good level of knowledge and understanding of factors that can affect wine quality and how to best avoid issues. The course will also cover pre-bottling analysis, post-bottling analysis and legal requirements, managing fill-heights, managing pressure in sparkling wine bottles.   

Topics include:

• Quality considerations for wine production
• Managing common issues and faults
• Pre-bottling analysis
• Post-bottling analysis
• Current legal requirements for analysis
• Fill heights and how to manage consistently
• Issues with pressure in sparkling wine bottles and how to manage

PPE Equipment Required

The programme includes an afternoon practical activity in the winery/lab, so requires students to bring:

• Good sturdy footwear such as Wellington boots
• Working clothes or overall
• Lab coats will be provided

The course ends with a 30-minute multiple-choice exam.

There will be an assumed level of knowledge and prior experience of winemaking. Wine enthusiasts with a background in microbiology and/or chemistry may also find this course of interest.