Advanced Principles of Winemaking - 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

This programme is based in the laboratory.

• Lab coats and safety goggles will be provided for you

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.

Course Cost 

Please note Plumpton College Wine Division have recently secured some funding, allowing for a reduction in price to a selection of wine courses, subject to eligibility*.

*Learners will be eligible for funding if they were aged over 19 on 31st August 2024 and have been resident in the UK for the last 3 years. Learners living in devolved areas (eg Greater London Combined Authority) will not be eligible for funding. Learners currently undertaking an apprenticeship will not be eligible for funding.

Cost (funded learners): £210

Cost (non-funded learners): £126