Pennsylvania’s wine heritage runs deep—dating back to William Penn, who planted French vinifera vines near Philadelphia in the 1680s. The modern industry, however, emerged after the Pennsylvania Farm Winery Act of 1968, which spurred hundreds of small wineries from Erie to the Brandywine Valley. Today, Pennsylvania ranks among the top ten wine-producing states in the country, supported by one of the most comprehensive wine-education ecosystems in the U.S.
At its heart is the Wine School of Philadelphia, founded in 2001 by winemaker and educator Keith Wallace. The school pioneered a modern, science-based approach to wine education, offering both consumer classes and professional certifications through the National Wine School (NWS)—which also accredits programs nationwide. (vinology.com)
Penn State’s Extension Enology and Viticulture Program provides technical training and research for vineyard owners and winemakers, including workshops in sensory analysis, fermentation management, and climate adaptation. (extension.psu.edu)
Top Pennsylvania Wine Schools
