Maryland’s wine industry has grown steadily from a small base, helped along by university extension work and trade groups that focus on practical training. The University of Maryland Extension runs ongoing viticulture and enology programming—new-grower workshops, site-selection guidance, pest management, and winemaking resources—anchored by Dr. Joseph Fiola at the Western Maryland Research and Education Center.
On the trade side, the Maryland Wineries Association and the Maryland Grape Growers Association host field days, cellar-rat trainings, compliance seminars, and vineyard establishment resources that serve both aspiring and working producers.
For formal wine qualifications on the consumer and hospitality track, Charm City Wine School in Baltimore operates as a WSET program provider, offering Level 1 and up.
Community colleges also contribute entry-level education for enthusiasts and service professionals. Frederick Community College runs short courses like “Raise Your Wine IQ,” and Anne Arundel Community College offers noncredit wine classes as part of its continuing-education catalog. These aren’t industry certificates, but they help build foundational skills.
Taken together—Extension workshops, trade-association training, WSET credentials in Baltimore, and community-college offerings—Maryland’s wine education ecosystem is practical and workforce-oriented, aimed at growers, cellar hands, tasting-room staff, and curious consumers alike.
