‘Cultivating minds’: Texas Tech offering online courses in viticulture, enology

By Emily Hilley-Sierzchula

Now that it’s harvest time at the multitude of Hill Country wineries and vineyards, some folks might wonder what it takes to be involved in the growing Texas wine industry. As it turns out, training is available here through Texas Tech University’s Worldwide eLearning programs at the Highland Lakes campus in Marble Falls.

“The wine industry is not just another agricultural product: There’s a big multiplier effect because of its connection with the hospitality industry,” said Dr. Edward Hellman, TTU professor of viticulture. “Wineries and vineyards are a good fit for the Hill Country because it’s already a tourist destination, and then you add the wine industry, which adds to the income of restaurants and hotels.”

Almost 1.5 million tourists visited Texas wineries in 2011, a 66 percent increase from 2005, according to the Texas Wine and Grape Growers Association (TWGGA.)

While the total economic impact of the wine industry was calculated at a sturdy $133 million in 2001, just 10 years later, the economic impact in the same area had spiked to $1.8 billion, according to TWGGA.

Texas Tech offers three separate programs geared toward preparing students for careers in the wine industry. Two certificate programs, for viticulture and enology, are available; additionally, a bachelor’s degree can be obtained.

For the full story, see Friday's Highlander.