3 credits
This course describes the different chemical compounds present in musts and wine. It deals with the influence of different natural and technical conditions on the base material, and the evolution reactions affecting the final product. Laboratory sessions will be conducted to provide students with a handson experience in the analysis of wine.
3 credits
This course details the microbial ecosystem from grapes to wines, the biology and growth of yeasts and bacteria. It covers alcoholic and malolactic fermentation processes as well as the conditions for better progress of these fermentations. This course also addresses the spoilage microorganisms, in addition to the selected productive microorganisms. It discusses the techniques and means for monitoring microbial stability: sulphuring, thermal destruction and filtration. The optimal conditions for wine packaging, conservation and storage will be discussed. Lab sessions will complete this course.
3 credits
This course covers the current practices for establishing a vineyard and maintaining its vigor and productivity. Topics covered include soil analysis, varietal selection, rooting cuttings, grafting and planting. The course also details the cultural practices in viticulture such as irrigation, fertilization, leaf removal, plowing, pruning, trellising, and phytosanitary treatments.
3 credits
The aim of this course is to consolidate the students’ knowledge about the Lebanese and the worldwide terroirs. In this course, presentations will be made about the terroir characteristic (soil, climate, grape variety), the relationship between wine and terroir, the specific oenological practices, as well as the appellations of each wine region.
The regions covered in this course are: Lebanon (as one appellation), the appellations of Bordeaux, Bourgogne, Rhône Valley, Languedoc Roussillon, South-west of France, Champagne, Douro valley (Portugal), La Rioja (Spain) and Nappa Valley (USA).
3 credits
This course provides students with insights into the nature, structure, functional mechanisms, and the complexities of the world's wine market, with emphasis on markets that are of strategic importance. Also, it examines key drivers in the world wine market and their impact on wine export dynamics and characteristics. In addition, the course highlights wine consumer behavioral aspects and successful marketing strategies employed in the wine consuming markets.
3 credits
This course identifies and describes basic tastes, aromas and flavors in wines using reference standards as well as a variety of types and styles of commercial wine. Through lectures and guided tastings and discussions, students will evaluate the sensory properties of wine using methods explained in class. In addition, students will come away with an objective and analytical approach to sensory evaluation. They will also gain an appreciation of the importance of sensory evaluation to a successful winemaking business.
3 credits
This course covers the practical aspects imposed in the processing of red wines (traditional and technological), white wines (dry and soft) and rosé wines (bleeding and press). This course details the preparation of juice / must, maceration steps, briefly the alcoholic and malolactic fermentation, aging in barrels, clarification, assemblies and the storage of finished product. The course also includes visits to wineries in Lebanon.