Napa Valley College and Napa Valley College Foundation take wraps off Wine Spectator Education Center
Napa Valley College and the Napa Valley College Foundation report the opening of the Wine Spectator Wine Education Center, with the aim of expanding opportunities for education, training, and career development in the vino industry.
A ribbon cutting ceremony was held on Thursday, 4th September, bringing together students, faculty, industry leaders, community members, and donors to mark the completion of phase one of the Napa Valley College Wine Education Complex, and the launch of phase two: construction of The Hospitality Training Center.
The 7,000-square-foot Wine Spectator Wine Education Center more than doubles classroom and training space for the college’s Viticulture and Winery Technology (VWT) program.
It features two sensory classrooms an upgraded Evelyn Allen Laboratory Classroom, and faculty offices. The center supports certificates and degrees in Viticulture, Winemaking, and Wine Marketing & Sales, as well as industry certificates such as Winery Management, Vineyard Management, and Wine Laboratory Technician.
Phase one was made possible by a $10 million lead donation from the Wine Spectator Scholarship Foundation, alongside an undisclosed but said to be significant contribution from the estate of longtime NVC supporter and alum Evelyn Allen.
“The ample educational opportunities offered through the Wine Spectator Wine Education Center will allow students to build extensive wine related skills through an assortment of programs and degrees - all designed to enhance their careers,” says Marvin R. Shanken, Editor and Publisher of Wine Spectator. “I’m proud to support this vital resource for both Napa Valley College and the wine industry, and to give back to the wine and culinary communities, who have given so much to me.”
The Hospitality Training Center will feature: classroom and training space for NVC’s hospitality and wine programs; a tasting bar and movable sit-down seating to emulate a variety of hospitality and tasting room scenarios; and event space to host industry trainings, educational events, guest lecturers and wine industry professionals.
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