To work as a winemaker, you typically need to:

• have significant experience in winemaking, or at least a bachelor's degree in enology or viticulture;
• be familiar with the many types of wines and wine grapes; and
• be able to taste and identify different wines.

Education after high school

There are many different paths for becoming a winemaker. Some people become a winemaker through a personal hobby. Others study winemaking in college or attend graduate school in the field. Yet others grow up on a winery. Regardless of the path, it is not easy to become a winemaker. Your "palette" or ability to taste wine must be superior. In addition, you must have significant experience in the field. Even those with a degree in enology or viticulture often work their way up at a winery before becoming a winemaker.

A variety of formal programs in enology are offered. At one end are the short, "do-it-yourself" type courses at community colleges. At the other end are master's degrees. In general, employers prefer winemakers who have at least a bachelor's degree.

Work experience

Some winemakers enter the field by working many years at a winery. They may have started out as a helper, assistant, or "cellar master." In general, to become the winemaker at a winery or vineyard, you must first prove yourself in related positions.