In a response to the popularity of wineries in the Northwest, Washington State University has developed a four-year program, Wine Business Management that deals with the business and hospitality segments of owning a winery.

Washington State University is now offering a new business program geared to wineries. WSU offers a number of programs for winemakers and viticulturists. While many are on campus programs, some are online as is the Washington State University Prosser winemaking program.

Most wineries do not have an inordinate amount of time to spend on the business aspects of a winery but this is very important so important that we heard at the Wineries Unlimited Conference 2011 “don’t spend a dime until you have a business plan.” There is more information about Wineries Unlimited on the Wine Trail Traveler website.

Starting and owning a profitable winery and vineyard is an expensive venture. Perhaps that is why we see many wineries owned by well-known actors, musicians and sports figures. Anyone interested in wineries, business and hospitality would do well to look at the Wine Business Management major offered by Washington State University.

Cheers! Kathy