Certificate in Wine Discovery, Tasting, Pairing, and Preservation Level 2

The purpose of this micro-credential is to introduce learners to the foundational principles of wine discovery, appreciation, tasting, food pairing, and preservation, with a specific emphasis on New Zealand’s wine characteristics. Designed at NZQCF Level 2, this 10-credit micro-credential supports individuals seeking to gain personal or entry-level professional knowledge of wine in a culturally respectful and experiential learning environment.

The micro-credential is grounded in the New Zaland and global viticultural landscape and reflects the aspirations of local industries, hospitality businesses, and wine tourism stakeholders. It provides learners with guided exposure to wine tasting techniques, vineyard operations, and food pairing principles. The micro-credential is intentionally inclusive and accessible, encouraging Māori and non-Māori learners to engage with local food and wine culture through a sensory, reflective, and applied learning framework.

Content:

• Introduction to Wine and Viticulture
• Sensory Analysis and Wine Tasting Techniques
• Wine Regions and Grape Varietals
• Wine and Food Pairing Fundamentals
• Hospitality and Cultural Contexts of Wine
• Reflections and Storytelling through Wine
• Practical Application in a New Zealand Context (e.g. Canterbury wineries)

Outcome:
On successful completion of this micro-credential, learners/ākonga will be able to:

• Describe the historical development of wine, including New Zealand’s indigenous and colonial influences on wine culture.
• Identify key grape varieties and differentiate major wine styles, including red, white, rosé, sparkling, dessert, and fortified wines.

• Apply sensory evaluation techniques to assess wine, including visual, aromatic, and taste-based descriptors.
• Implement basic wine and food pairing strategies based on principles of complementary and contrasting characteristics.
• Apply safe and respectful hosting techniques in simulated wine tasting settings.

There are no minimum academic qualifications required for admission to this micro-credential.

• All learners must be aged 18 years or older at the time of enrolment.
• As the course includes practical wine tasting activities, learners must meet the legal drinking age in New Zealand (18+), in compliance with the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012.
• As part of the enrolment process, learners are asked to disclose any allergies or medical conditions relevant to wine tasting to ensure health and safety compliance during practical sessions.

New Zealand College of Business (NZCB) is a leading private tertiary education provider based in Christchurch, New Zealand, dedicated to delivering high-quality, industry-relevant education for both domestic and international learners.

Established in 2004, NZCB has built a strong reputation for academic excellence, practical learning, and student success. As a NZQA Category 1 institution, we specialise in applied business education, English language programmes, pathway education, and professional development programmes designed to prepare learners for real-world success.

Our programmes combine academic rigour with practical industry engagement, ensuring graduates develop the skills, confidence, and capabilities required to thrive in today’s global workforce.

NZCB maintains strong partnerships with universities, industry organisations, and international education partners across New Zealand and overseas, creating valuable progression pathways for our students.

At NZCB, we believe education should be practical, purposeful, and transformative.

Practical Education. Global Pathways. Real Success.