California has been the backbone of American wine for more than a century, and its educational institutions have shaped nearly every aspect of that success. The state’s first organized wine-education efforts began in the late 19th century, when the University of California, Berkeley introduced viticulture studies in the 1880s. These programs eventually moved to UC Davis, which established a dedicated Department of Viticulture and Enology in 1935—today the most influential wine school in the world.
UC Davis set the standard for blending science and craftsmanship, training generations of winemakers who built California’s global reputation. Other campuses soon followed suit: California State University, Fresno launched its Enology Program in 1948 and now operates a bonded teaching winery, while Cal Poly San Luis Obispo emphasizes sustainable viticulture and hands-on production.
Beyond the universities, institutions such as the Napa Valley Wine Academy, San Francisco Wine School, and Wine House L.A. offer Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) and sommelier certifications for hospitality professionals and enthusiasts.
Together, these programs define California’s leadership in wine education—combining academic rigor, cutting-edge research, and industry-driven training that continues to shape winemaking across the United States and beyond.
