Wine Industry Career Series: The Value of Travel
Wine credentials and work experience look great on your resume, but wine travel can also catch the attention of a prospective employer—increasing your chances of landing a career in the biz.
My American Thanksgiving in Piemonte
Being an American expat in Italy isn’t always romantic. Even after 17 years, there are certain times like Thanksgiving that can make you feel especially nostalgic.
My American Thanksgiving in Burgundy
As an American living in France, I love mixing the traditions from home with those of my family and friends here. I’m hosting a Thanksgiving in Burgundy this month. The Franco-American holiday of Thanksgiving is a celebration for us of heritage, culture, family, friends and of course, that means food and wine.
What Does the Term ‘Rutherford Dust’ Mean?
The phrase ‘Rutherford Dust’ is shorthand for all of the factors that make Rutherford one of the most enviable places on earth to cultivate grapes.
Webinar – Everything Albariño: Discover Rías Baixas
Presenter: Rick Fisher, Spanish Wine Scholar Instructor Host: Christian Oggenfuss dipWSET and CEO, NVWA Rías Baixas is home to some of the world’s most elegant white wines and the native grape variety, Albariño. Crisp, light and refreshing, Albariño from Rías Baixas derives natural elegance from its misty, coastal terroir in northwest Spain. Join Rick Fisher,
Fiona Morrison and the Hidden Gems of Bordeaux
Wines of Portugal and Napa Valley Wine Academy as we welcome producers from Portugal live to taste the crisp fragrant white wines and the heady, earthy red blends of the region.
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 5 – Michael Cerio – Distinguished Vineyards
In this Episode, Karen Wetzel speaks with Michael Cerio, VP of Operations for Distinguished Vineyards & Wine Partners. Michael will share his experience and knowledge of the wine industry from a “back of the house” perspective and talk about the many jobs that fall under this umbrella. Michael will close out the interview with actionable
Champagne’s Third Wheel: Pinot Meunier
In a small handful of appellations around the world, it’s common to find a deeply colored, richly concentrated red wine that has been enhanced by the inclusion of white grapes. Here, we take a deep dive into the history of co-fermentation, from fans to deep skeptics.
Whole-Cluster Winemaking Explained
“It’s one of the thousand details that, if done with thought, can give a fuller expression of the site.” – Trey Fletcher
Wine Industry Career Series: The Digital Sales Rep
Times have changed and so have the ways in which sales reps do business. In this article, we’ll discuss the digital pivot, the impact of the pandemic, and the pros and cons of becoming a Digital Sales Rep.
Exam Success: Good, Better, Best—Never Stops to Rest
If you’re feeling “less than impressed” with your exam performance or on the nervous countdown until your next—you are not alone. Stacy Briscoe, wine journalist, editor, and DipWSET Candidate shares her personal sob story and brings you a glut of soul-crushing failure stories from MWs, and MS, and Napa Valley Wine Academy DipWSET staff. Remember, you are not alone!
Passion to Profit: Understanding Marketing, Sales and Distribution
The final piece of the supply chain can be the most complex. Here’s why you must understand (and plan for) it from the very beginning.
Webinar – Champagne Harvest
https://player.vimeo.com/video/610060092?h=4540a73982&badge=0&autopause=0&player_id=0&app_id=58479&wmode=opaque Host: Christian OggenfussdipWSET and CEO, NVWA This year has been a challenging one for the world’s most famous wine region. A deceptively warm early Spring pushed the vines to produce buds; the most severe frost in 30 years in early April devastated these buds. Please join us for an up-to-the-moment session on this year’s
Passion to Profit: Understanding Wine Production
A narrow view of wine production leaves money on the table. Maximize profits and opportunities by understanding all the options in going from grape to bottle.
Webinar – Rioja: Historic Superb Quality
https://player.vimeo.com/video/568654577?badge=0&autopause=0&player_id=0&app_id=58479&h=6c10185491 Host: Christian OggenfussdipWSET and CEO, NVWA What we covered: Rioja DOCa is among the world’s top 5 classic wine regions; people have known the style and ageability of these Tempranillo-based blends since the mid-1800’s. This webinar explores how Rioja’s iconic style came to be, and how the Bodegas of the region have adapted to
Passion to Profit: Understanding the business of grapes
Every decision in the vineyard has monumental consequences on the quality, costs and profitability of the final product. No matter where you work in wine, it all begins with the grapes.
Passion to Profit: How to make money in wine
There is a gap in the wine industry between learning about wine and knowing how to make money in wine. No matter your career goals — teaching, selling, marketing, making — you must understand the entire supply chain and value chain in order to be successful.
Webinar – Rioja: Tempranillo and Beyond
What we covered: Rioja is a region made famous by its blends of Tempranillo and other varieties, aged for long periods in oak.
Advances in viticulture, harvesting and winemaking – as well as climate change – have allowed Rioja’s growers and winemakers to single out the noble grape of Spain and its sister grapes, and make outstanding wines highlighting the terroir of the region.
Join Master of Wine Kryss Speegle in this tasting webinar as she discusses the varieties that grow in Rioja, where they grow and how viticulture knowledge has changed what is possible in one of the world’s top 5 wine regions. We will taste terroir specific Tempranillo, Graciano, Garnacha and Viura from specific areas. A wine kit is included in this webinar for qualified trade.
We also discussed:
— The new trend and new allowances of grape provenance vs wine style
–Grape and wine character through a wine kit
Wine & Literature
Drinking wine is like reading a good book. We sip and savor to discover a wine’s story, drown in the dialogue between terroir and grape, befriend the character of the winemaker. Here are 10 lines from famous texts that pertain to wine; and speak to the time and place in which the words were written.
The History of Co-Fermentation in Côte-Rôtie and Beyond
In a small handful of appellations around the world, it’s common to find a deeply colored, richly concentrated red wine that has been enhanced by the inclusion of white grapes. Here, we take a deep dive into the history of co-fermentation, from fans to deep skeptics.
The Evolution of Wine Labels, and What We Can Learn From Them
A brief history in the evolution of wine labels: From ancient Egyptian practices to early hand-written labels by Dom Perignon, and the New World adoption of varietally-naming wines—and now technology. There’s so much more to a wine label.
France’s 2021 wine harvest could be the smallest in decades
A preliminary estimate released by France’s agriculture ministry shows that the 2021 wine harvest will be one of the smallest in at least 50 years. The output is likely to decrease by 24% – 30% across France, said Agreste, France agriculture ministry statisticians. That means the average wine production in France may fall to between
Wine Industry Career Series: The Anatomy of a Wine Sales Rep
Have you ever thought about becoming a Sales Rep for a Wine Distributor? Not sure what exactly that would look like? Then click here for a peek behind the curtain and see what a day in the life of a wine rep is like.
Judgment of Paris: Its Impact on the Present and Future
“I couldn’t help but wonder whether the judges in Paris all those decades ago felt a similar jolt of joy when tasting (blind, of course, like we did in PA) wines that weren’t yet widely accepted on the world stage.”
California Zinfandel: Past, Present, and Future
There are many versions of how Zinfandel came to California. Much like Merlot’s 1990s-era stardom, Zinfandel became over popular, but is Zinfandel due for a comeback?
Webinar – On Bordeaux w/ Elin McCoy – Right Bank vs. Left Bank
Effects of Wind on Wine
Two California vintners discuss how wind influences viticulture, winemaking and resulting wine styles
The Lemberger Revolution in New Jersey
The Garden State just might have found its wine groove with Blaufränkisch (a.k.a., Lemberger), a variety with a history that’s nearly as misunderstood as New Jersey itself.
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 4 – Peter Marks Master of Wine
In this episode of Wine, Work & Passion, we’ll talk to Peter Marks, Master of Wine, Instructor, and partner in Napa Valley Wine Academy.
A DIY Guide to Cellaring and Storing Wine
When it Comes to Storing Your Wine, You Have Options
Wine Industry Career Series: Understanding the Three-Tiered System
The Three-Tiered System is an integral part of the alcohol beverage industry and is a rich source for wine jobs across the US. Understanding this hierarchy is critical in helping you determine what roles might best fit your needs. Check out this article to learn more.
American Whiskey: Respect for the Past, Reimagining the Future
The current deeply exciting state of American whiskey has not developed by mistake. The recent explosion of new whiskey labels has created a buzz around the ancient amber liquor. NVWA Brian Freedman highlights the key players in the American Whiskey movement, and how you can learn to taste like a pro.
What Makes Pinot Noir Burgundian or ‘Orgundian’
Examining the Environmental influences of two prominent Pinot Noir regions
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 3 – Curtis Mann – Albertsons
In this episode of Wine, Work & Passion, we’ll talk to Curtis Mann, Master of Wine, Group Vice President – Alcohol (Wine, Beer & Spirits). Curtis shares insights about working on the retail side of the wine industry and provide actionable advice to help you in pursuit of your wine industry career. He’ll also share his experience as one of only 52 Masters of Wine in the US/Canada.
Webinar – Côtes du Rhône Foundations
The Rhône Valley region of France has been a quality wine producing region for over 800 years. In fact, the imprint of CDR was noted as far back as the 1700s. Much of the sommelier community focus of the region has been on the cru wines from a handful of well-known villages.
Biodynamic Farming in Wine
Sonoma-based wine journalist and editor Stacy Briscoe visits Quintessa, taking a deep dive into the biodynamic farming practices at this iconic Napa estate.
Wine Industry Career Series: Home-Based Wine Consulting
Pre-openings, a surge in wine sales, and tourism are benefiting from pent-up demand to get out and socialize. This is leading to a huge surge in wine and wine-adjacent job postings.
Everything You Need to Know About Sparkling Wine
From the three major methods of sparkling wine production to dryness levels in Champagne and styles around the world — Joe Roberts covers all the bases.
Webinar – Sustainability in Champagne
Climate change has affected the world’s most famous wine region – is that good or bad?
Learn how the Champagne region has modified the way it grows, produces, bottles, and exports its most prized asset. Instructor and Champagne expert Jess Helfand (Diploma WSET) guides us through everything from canopy management, harvest dates, bottle weight, and more.
Yes, we can tend to the planet while indulging in our favorite bubbly, and yes we can feel great about it!
Webinar – Rioja – What You Need to Know Now
We welcomed special guest presenter Matthew Kaner, Master of Wine Peter Marks, and Dhane Chesson representing the Rioja region. We also had the pleasure to present special messages from icons of the region – Alvaro Palacios of Palacios Remondo, Maria Urrutia of CVNE and Pablo de Simon of Valserrano.
Wine Industry Career Series: The Time is Right for Wine Jobs
Pre-openings, a surge in wine sales, and tourism are benefiting from pent-up demand to get out and socialize. This is leading to a huge surge in wine and wine-adjacent job postings.
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 2 – Morgan Bailey – Quintessa Winery
In this special episode, we’ll talk to Morgan Bailey, Hospitality Director at Quintessa Winery, about the surge in available wine jobs as wineries reopen and the busy season approaches. Morgan will share her experience and expertise and offer advice on how you can find and secure a job right now in wine hospitality.
ALL POWER TO THE SHERRY COCKTAIL
“Why do bartenders and mixologists adore sherry? Because the category gives us so much creative freedom,” says Chantal Tseng, founder of Custom Cocktails for the End Times. “With Sherry’s complex aromatic profile, over 300 volatile aromatic compounds at any given sniff, one could just as easily add brilliant, savoury nuance to a stirred aperitif as incorporate rich chocolatey structure to a seven ingredient tropical rum combination. Sherry is simply the perfect host when mixing.”
How the Pandemic Has Disrupted the Sommelier Community
What is a sommelier exactly? How has the pandemic disrupted the “Sommunity” and how will it recover? Hooper was the Wine Director for Faith and Flower in Los Angeles but lost his job because of the pandemic. He’s now writing for Wine & Spirits magazine, and this is his Op-Ed on how the pandemic is shaking up the somms’ restaurant world.
WINE WORK & PASSION EPISODE 1 – The Launch – Wine, Work & Passion
In this inaugural episode, you’ll meet Christian Oggenfuss, the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Napa Valley Wine Academy. He’ll inspire you with his amazing journey on his way to becoming the CEO of America’s Premier Wine School, and I’ll share my story as well. We’ll also offer expert advice on how you can enter our exciting industry.
Episode 22 – Hugh Johnson – The Story of a Wine Giant
In this episode, we catch up with wine legend, Hugh Johnson. Hugh has been one of the wine world’s most read and influential authors over a 60-year career. He has inspired so many to pursue further wine education and helped transform how we think about wine writing. His story is complex, thrilling, and inspiring much like many of the finest wines of the world.
Wine Industry Career Series: Working as a Wine Educator
So, what is a Wine Educator and how do you become one? In this issue, I’ll answer these questions and others, and I’ll show you there are more ways to share your knowledge and passion than you think.
Ongoing Brexit Turmoil is Rattling the UK Wine Trade
British wine merchants are facing new regulations and it could mean a price hike for consumers. Decanter contributor Chris Mercer has the scoop.
Warfare to Winemaking
Alma Rosa winemaker Samra Morris is possibly the only Bosnian winemaker in the US. She survived growing up in a war zone to pursue her lifelong goal of making wine.
Wine in Outer Space
Twelve bottles of Bordeaux wine and 320 vine plants were shot into space as part of a grand study to see how microgravity can affect the aging process of wine. This is what happened.
Episode 21 – Steven Spurrier – The Story of Bride Valley Sparkling Wine
In this special episode, We have the opportunity to chat with one of the wine industry’s most storied and accomplished figures, Steven Spurrier, perhaps best known for organizing the 1976 Paris Testing that helped catapult Napa Valley onto the world wine stage.
Wine Industry Career Series: Instagram for Income
Is Instagram the holy grail for wine entrepreneurs? That depends on how you define Instagram-based success. Is it the number of followers you have, how many likes, shares, or reposts you get? Does that translate to ‘money in the bank’?
Webinar – Franciacorta – Behind the Scenes
Wines of Portugal and Napa Valley Wine Academy as we welcome producers from Portugal live to taste the crisp fragrant white wines and the heady, earthy red blends of the region.
What the New Wave of Wine Tariffs Means for You
Joe Roberts spoke with WineAmerica President Jim Trezise
about the new tariffs introduced by the former Trump administration.
Chile’s Carignan Renaissance
Everything you need to know about the rising VIGNO movement.
Episode 20 – Wine and War – The Story of Lebanon
In this episode, Christian Oggenfuss sits with Michael Karam, the author of Wines of Lebanon and contributor to the new wine documentary Wine and War, about the rich and often war-torn history of Lebanese wines. This is their story.
7 Best Wine Stories You Missed in 2020
Taking a look back at all we published last year, here are 7 of our staff-favorite reads from 2020.
Wine Industry Career Series: Pump Up Your Resume
Is your resume long on skills but short on wine knowledge or experience? Check out this latest installment of our Wine Industry Career Series for fun, easy, often free ways to pump up your resume and look like a wine pro.
Episode 19 – The Story of Franciacorta
In this episode, Christian Oggenfuss sits down with Giammario Villa an Italian native, Master Taster, sommelier, author, and ambassador for the Consorzio Franciacorta. We discuss Gammario’s journey and explore the origins of Italy’s premier sparkling wine region. This is their story.
A Master of Wine’s Study of the Relationship Between Alcohol and Cancer
Amy Christine MW has a personal story to share (in three parts) about wine and her experience with a serious health matter. All three parts are included and should be read in one sitting.
Wine Industry Career Series: Resume Makeover
Is your resume in desperate need of a makeover? Is the word “wine” even mentioned? Does it tell a prospective employer what you bring to the table, or does it read more like a laundry list of your life’s work? We’re here to help get your resume in shape for that wine industry job of your dreams.
Alicia Kidd’s The Wine Noire is Helping BIPOC and Women-Owned Brands
We spoke to Alicia, a student at NVWA, about her education journey and asked for her take on issues facing the BIPOC community in the wine industry.
Webinar- Cariñena – Land of Wind and Stones
Wines of Portugal and Napa Valley Wine Academy as we welcome producers from Portugal live to taste the crisp fragrant white wines and the heady, earthy red blends of the region.
Wine Industry Career Series: Experience vs. Credentials
Dreaming of career in the Wine Industry but lack experience or credentials? Which is more important? Just like the chicken and egg, it’s hard to know which comes first.
Franciacorta Satèn DOCG
Tiny bubbles, low bottle pressure, elegance and a silky texture are the hallmarks of this totally unique style of Classic Method sparkling wine from Lombardia, Italy’s finest sparkling wine region. Franciacorta Ambassador Giammario Villa takes us on our Satèn tasting journey.
Piemonte Wine and Truffles
Michelin-dining opportunities galore, the thought of agnolotti by the forkfuls, hazelnuts, chocolate, loads of Nutella, and of course—black truffles and the storied tartufo bianco d’Alba (white truffles). That’s what you can expect if you visit Piedmont, Italy during the heights of truffle season—and generous pours of Barolo!
