North Carolina’s growing wine industry spurs bachelor degree program
Appalachian State student newspaper The Appalachian reports that the school is likely to add a bachelor’s degree in oenology and viticulture this fall. The school already has several wine-related courses.
Writes Julia Harr for The Appalachian:
“The newest course will teach students about dessert wines and sparkling wines,” [chemistry professor and program director Grant] Holder said. “North Carolina vineyards will produce grapes perfect for those wines.”
Upon approval, the program will be transatlantic and students can expect to study abroad in foreign countries known for their wines such as Portugal, France and Italy.
Although the degree is mostly chemistry based to give students background on the process of wine making, it will also teach students the marketing aspects of the industry.
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“North Carolina gets about one new winery every month,” Holder said. “I think they have about 70 now.” …
Holder said the western side of the state is losing interest in the tobacco industry and has turned their efforts to the wine industry.