Greek term for the "doctrine and science of wine" (oinos = wine); one sub-field is ampelography (grapevine science). The name is derived from the mythological king Oineus, whom the wine god Dionysus taught viticulture. In the past, it was understood to mean pure cellar technology as distinct from vineyard technology. Today, however, it is understood to mean not only winemaking, but the totality of all viticultural concerns. The diverse range of tasks of the oenologist thus includes involvement in vineyard management, full responsibility for the production of grape juice, wine and derived products (e.g. sparkling wine, brandy) and ensuring their shelf life, carrying out and interpreting analyses and also knowledge of product marketing. In all of this, the latest wine legislation must be observed.
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Prof. Dr. Walter Kutscher
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