Introduction Level 1

The Introductory Level 1 covers six hours of wine curriculum. Here we will cover the highlights of the curriculum and key learning objectives.

Chapter #1: History and Lore

The beginnings of the California Wine Industry, starting with major eras in the history of California wine including the Mission era, post-Gold Rush, Prohibition and modern times.

Chapter #2: Geography and Climate

• California's Unique Geography

• California’s Major Climate Influences

• Chapter #2: Quiz

Chapter #3: Soils

• Soils in the Vineyard

• How Californian soil types dictate the grape variety chosen for a vineyard.

• Chapter #3: Quiz

Chapter #4: Grapes

• Wine Grapes in California: Past and Present

• Wine Grapes in California: Chardonnay

• Level 1: Tasting Chardonnay

• Wine Grapes in California: Sauvignon Blanc

• Level 1: Tasting Sauvignon Blanc

• Wine Grapes in CA: Cabernet Sauvignon

• Level 1: Tasting Cabernet Sauvignon

• Wine Grapes in CA: Zinfandel

• Level 1: Tasting Zinfandel

• Wine Grapes in CA: Pinot Noir

• Level 1: Tasting Pinot Noir

• Wine Grapes in CA: Merlot

• Level 1: Tasting Merlot

• Wine Grapes in CA: Syrah

• Level 1: Tasting Syrah

• Chapter #4: Quiz

Chapter #5: Viticulture and Vinification

• Grape Growing

• Vineyard Needs

• Fermentation

• Chapter #5: Quiz

Chapter #6: Aging and Maturation

• Aging & Maturation: Winemaking Vessels

• Why We Age Wine

• Chapter #6: Quiz

Chapter #7: Wine Law

• Legal Definitions: California Wine Law

• Chapter #7: Quiz

Chapter #8: Official Classifications

• American Viticultural Areas in California

• The AVAs of Napa Valley, Sonoma County, And Santa Barbara County

• Chapter #8: Quiz

Chapter #9: Producers

• Important Historical Wineries: A Selection of 5 Wineries in Level 1

• Chapter 9: Quiz

Chapter #10: Vintages

• The Concept of Vintage

• Chapter #10: Quiz

Chapter #11: California Wine Business

• Key Statistics For California Wine

• Chapter 11: Quiz

FINAL EXAM

• FINAL EXAM