Enologist--Career Q&A: Professional Advice and Insight

In this Career Q&A video interview, Wilson Ward talks about his career path, what he does on the job, and the keys to success in winemaking. He also offers candid advice on breaking into the profession as well as insight into the industry's biggest challenges and how the field may change in the next ten years.

Length: 11 minutes

ORDER CODE: FFM-BVL190407

Copyright date: ©2019

Closed Captioned

Enologist: Main Duties and Responsibilities (00:50)
Wilson Ward owns the Fisher Ridge Winery and also works as a viticulturist. Most people have a preference and a higher skill set for one occupation or the other.

Enologist: Career Beginnings (00:37)
Ward became interested in winemaking while stationed in San Francisco with the Public Health Service. After he returned home, he became an amateur enologist.

Enologist: Keys for Success (00:37)
Ward recommends having imagination, competency, and perseverance. Do not try to fit vintages into a pigeon-hole.

Enologist: Education and Certification Requirements (01:36)
There are no technical requirements, but Ward recommends studying micro-biology, biochemistry, and incorporating creativity. His education in dental school helped him understand yeast fermentation, fermentation paths, and pH.

Enologist: Workplace Atmosphere (01:03)
Enologists tend to live close to their workplace. Ward says there is never a bad day at the winery; physical size varies.

Enologist: Advice for Aspiring Pros (00:40)
Have an open mind and talk to others in the profession. Sample wines to see if the field suits.

Enologist: A Day on the Job (01:11)
There is no typical day at the winery. Grapes dictate what type of wine will be made. Several things can go wrong; consider when the wine will be consumed.

Enologist: Industry Goals and Services (01:01)
Winemakers want to show a profit and get a product to the consumer. Small distributors want to generate brand loyalty.

Enologist: Industry Challenges (02:05)
There is a trend toward homogenization in the wine-making industry. Only a few purveyors cover a large section of the market. Each state has different regulations regarding alcohol.