Wine Science (Viticulture & Enology)

Wine Science Program at WSU Tri-Cities

Washington state is the nation’s second-most productive wine region, and Washington wines have an international reputation for high quality. And WSU Tri-Cities is in the heart of Washington wine country. You’ll get hands-on practice in laboratories, vineyards, and wineries and learn from professors who are national and international experts in viticulture and enology (wine science). Our hands-on degree programs in wine science get students ready for their careers in the vineyard or as a winemaker.

Cutting-edge Research

WSU Tri-Cities is home to the Ste. Michelle Wine Science Center. This one-of-a-kind laboratory is the right space in the right place to help the Washington wine industry remain environmentally sustainable and economically successful. This research and teaching facility, located in the heart of wine country is equal to those at other top research universities world-wide and ready to serve as a gathering place to spark innovation, fuel economic development, support local, regional, national and international collaboration, and provide a catalyst for research breakthroughs.

Get Your Hands Dirty

Wine Science majors get real-world experience working in the Albert Ravenholt research and teaching vineyard that sits at the entrance of campus. The quarter-acre section has about 30 vines each of three red wine varieties (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah) and of three white wine varieties (Chardonnay, Gewürtztraminer, and Riesling).

Blended Learning

The second wine from the WSU Blended Learning student-made wine series has made its debut. The new red blend is a combination of Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc wine grapes and was made in partnership with students in the WSU Viticulture and Enology Program and Horse Heaven Hills. The new tradition of blended learning is bringing together students, alumni, winemakers, growers and wine enthusiasts to uncork the possibilities.