Definition: oenologist

The profession of oenologist is at the heart of wine-growing activities, most often upstream of the marketing channels. It is a university-level qualification that corresponds to the definition established by the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV):

An oenologist is a person who, by virtue of their scientific and technical knowledge attested by a relevant higher education or university degree, is capable of performing the following functions in accordance with good and fair practices: rationally applying the knowledge acquired or drawn from scientific and technical reports; conduct technological research; collaborate in the design of equipment used in technology and for cellar equipment; collaborate in the establishment and cultivation of vineyards; take full responsibility for the production of grape juices, wines and grape-derived products and ensure their preservation; carrying out analyses (physical, chemical, microbiological and organoleptic) of the above products and interpreting the results; being able to assess the relationships between economics, wine legislation and oenological techniques and organising the distribution of the product.

The oenologist's mission is to produce quality wines that meet market requirements. Their skills can be applied in an analysis laboratory, in applied research, in advisory and extension organisations, in a wine-growing enterprise (private, cooperative), in trade, industry or education. There are many challenges today. They concern the product in its technical, ecological, economic, cultural and social environment.

Wine, a heavenly drink if ever there was one, has been part of people's daily lives for several millennia. Whether a cult drink, a festive drink or a table drink, wine is above all an opportunity for sharing. At a time when the trend is towards standardisation, oenologists strive to preserve and promote the unique characteristics of our wine-growing regions, which contribute to the richness and diversity of Swiss wines. They are the guardians of a thousand-year-old tradition, into which they integrate innovation with ethics and consistency.

The profession in Europe

The International Union of Oenologists (UIŒ) brings together more than 20,000 oenologists worldwide, the majority of whom are based in Europe. Each country has its own training programme that complies with the definition of the profession as set out by the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV). In addition to European countries, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Uruguay and Canada are members of the UIOE.

Becoming an oenologist

The HES engineering degree in oenology is a scientific qualification obtained at the Changins School of Engineering (EIC). It entitles the holder to the title of oenologist. The course lasts seven semesters and is preceded by practical training (CFC in viticulture or oenology) or equivalent training (minimum of one year of practical internships in viticulture and oenology). The minimum level of education required is a vocational baccalaureate.

HES studies are governed by the Federal Law on HES (RS 414.71). This law specifies in particular:

- admission requirements (Art. 5)

- studies leading to a degree (Art. 4)

Conversion of ETS qualifications to HES qualifications

Holders of an ETS engineering qualification in viticulture and oenology can subsequently obtain a HES engineering qualification in oenology, provided they can demonstrate at least five years of recognised professional experience in a relevant field or attendance at a postgraduate course at university level. No deadline has been set for submitting applications.

In collaboration with the Swiss Technical Union (UTS) and the Swiss Society of Business Economists ESCES (SSE ESCES), the OPET has set up an information platform.

Professional advocacy

The national unions are responsible for defending the profession in their respective countries. Professional defence concerns the use of the title of oenologist and its function. In Switzerland, the Swiss Union of Oenologists defends the use of the title by closely monitoring the country's media. This issue is also dealt with in collaboration with the Changins School of Engineering.

USΠand UTS

In contact with the Swiss Technical Union (UTS), the USOE closely follows the development of national and international negotiations with the aim of promoting the recognition of HES diplomas. In particular, the recognition of HES studies at Master's level and not Bachelor's level, as is currently the case.

USŒ and UIŒ

The USŒ holds two seats on the General Assembly of the International Union of Oenologists (UIŒ). The latter brings together all the national unions and represents the interests of the profession at the OIV (International Organisation of Vine and Wine) in Paris and in Brussels, within the framework of the activities of the European Union (EU).

UIΠand OIV

The UIΠhas strengthened its collaboration with the OIV over the past two years by accepting observer status. The OIV is an intergovernmental organisation and NGOs cannot become full members. The UIΠwas already represented by the oenologists responsible for representing the official delegations of member countries. Nevertheless, the UIΠis now represented on OIV committees in order to better defend the cause of oenologists. There is currently one delegate per committee and subcommittee, for a total of 28 people. However, these delegates do not have voting rights or the right to chair meetings.

The UIΠis a member of the International Federation of Major International Wine and Spirits Competitions. The Federation currently comprises more than 12 competitions.

UIΠand the EU

The UIΠis represented at the European Commission's Directorate-General for Agriculture within the Standing Group on Wine of the Advisory Committee on Special Products.

Brussels has set up a Working Group on Oenological Practices, in which two representatives and two alternates from the UIΠare present. The UIΠalso participates in COPA-COGECA seminars, the most recent of which addressed "The challenges facing the European wine sector in the next decade".