RCCC offers winemaking class
Published 12:00 am Saturday, January 24, 2015
New personal enrichment class could be a gift, date idea, or group-bonding experience
With the growing popularity of local wineries, the craft of the artisan adult beverage is a piqued interest for many wine devotees, drinkers and oenophiles.
In this time of curiosity for Pinterest and DIY projects, people are looking for imaginative outlets to create their own personal products.
In keeping with this trend, Rowan-Cabarrus Community College will present a stimulating new personal enrichment course in the basics of winemaking beginning January 26.
“Whether you’re a budding vintner or simply looking to expand you’re wine jargon and feel more confident when ordering a glass from the sommelier at your favorite restaurant, this course is for you,” said Tricia Staggers, director of personal enrichment and healthy living at Rowan-Cabarrus. “The class will prove not only illuminating but a fun way to learn something new.”
During the course, students will be guided through the entire hands-on process of winemaking starting with the initial set-up, and ending with the bottling and corking of their very own bottle of Chilean merlot.
“This is a novel idea for a date night, mother-daughter bonding session, or a group activity with your dearest companions,” said Staggers. “Also, with Valentine’s Day fast-approaching, the course would make a romantic gift for you and your loved one.”
The course will be taught by Jason Pfeffer who has a passion for making homemade wine.
“My family has been making wine for years. The activity not only provides us with a hobby, but bonds us in the unique way we spend time together during the vinification,” said Pfeffer.
Through the five-week course, students will learn wine history, lingo, essential components, and the advantages and drawbacks of using a wine kit versus fresh fruit. Their new abundance of wine awareness will ensure their ability to be the hit of the next engagement on their social calendar.
“We thought we would bring an activity with thousands of years of history to our community in a modern and enjoyable setting,” said Pfeffer on the idea behind the course.
The course will run every Monday from Jan. 26 to Feb. 23, and take place from 6 to 7 p.m., at the North Campus in Salisbury.
“I’d encourage those interested to register as soon as possible, as there is a bevy of interest pouring in and limited slots available,” said Staggers.
In addition to traditional career-enhancing courses, the College offers classes designed to help you meet your personal goals.
“For getting fit – mind and body! – we have core stability, yoga and meditation. We also have classes to help you write the next best seller – from a best seller herself! Or, if you need to improve your digital photography, we’ve got a class for that, too. You can make your friends and family jealous on Instagram and Facebook with your new drastically enhanced skills,” said Staggers.
For more information about this course, including how to register, as well as other enrichment courses offered at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College, please visit www.rccc.edu/enrichment or call 704-216-RCCC (7222).