Plumpton College in East Sussex is reporting a major rise in UK students eager to pursue careers in the wine industry, as interest in viticulture and winemaking reaches record levels.
The college, widely recognised as the home of wine education in the UK, offers a range of specialist courses in wine business, grape growing, and winemaking. These include foundation degrees, a bachelor's degree in viticulture and oenology, and even a master’s degree.
Students graduating from Plumpton are finding success in a variety of roles, from winemakers and vineyard managers to wine buyers and sensory analysts. Notable alumni have gone on to lead at top names such as Gusbourne, Vagabond, Majestic Wines, Marks & Spencer and Sotheby’s.
To encourage even more new talent, Plumpton has introduced two new scholarships. The Cobham House Vineyard Scholarship supports students from global majority backgrounds. The college is also expanding its own Wine Scholarship Programme, reinforcing its commitment to widening access.
Recognising the growing interest in wine education across the UK, Plumpton is extending its reach beyond Sussex. Short courses will be offered later this year in the Southwest, North and East of England. Topics include vinegrowing, wine business and managing wine faults. The college has also increased the number of short courses available at its main campus.
Sam Linter, Director of Wine at Plumpton College, said, “Great wine begins with great education. Plumpton College is the only UK institution offering wine education at undergraduate level. Our programmes build practical skills and a deep understanding of the journey from vineyard to glass. Whether you are an enthusiast or an aspiring professional, we help turn passion into expertise.”
Applications are now open for the following courses:
- FdA Wine Business (Foundation Degree)
- FdSc Wine Production (Foundation Degree)
- BSc (Hons) Viticulture and Oenology
- MSc Viticulture and Oenology
Alongside its educational programmes, Plumpton also operates a working vineyard and winery. Students gain hands-on experience producing wines sold under the Plumpton Estate label. These include the award-winning Plumpton Estate Brut Rosé NV, available in Waitrose, and the Plumpton Estate Bacchus Reserve.
For more information about wine courses, visit www.plumpton.ac.uk/wine-Division.