McHenry County College fall class lineup includes new course on wine culture

McHenry County College is serving up a new class as part of its upcoming Fall 2021 semester. “Introduction to Wine Culture” will be held on Monday nights from 5-7:30 p.m. this fall.

“We're excited to add this important class to our curriculum,” said Chef Tina Drzal, who leads the culinary programs at MCC. “It was recommended by our program advisory board, which is comprised of a number of local restaurants. This class will prepare our students to provide quality service at the growing number of craft breweries, wineries, and other similar establishments in the area.”

In the class, students will explore the history of different grapes, learn about various flavor profiles and food pairings, and review the proper service techniques of a variety of wines. The class is taught by Andy Andresky, wine expert and founder of 1776 Restaurant in Crystal Lake.

“This class is perfect for anyone looking to expand their knowledge of wine,” Drzal said. “Students will learn how to select a wine, pair it with food, and drink/taste it properly. There aren't any prerequisites for this class, so anyone is welcome to take it.”

The course is part of MCC's Beverage Management Certificate, one of three new certificates in the Culinary Management program. Other new programs include the Assistant Restaurant Manager and Hospitality Marketing Certificates. These programs are in addition to the college's existing Associate in Applied Science (AAS) programs in Culinary Management and Baking and Pastry Management and Baking and Pastry Assistant and Chef's Assistant Certificates. Both this wine class and a new bar and beverage class are both stackable electives that can be applied toward the Culinary or Baking and Pastry AAS degrees.

“Introduction to Wine Culture” is open to any student regardless of major. Students ages 18 and older may enroll in the course — it is not required for the student to be 21. All class materials are provided.

General registration for Fall 2021 classes is now open. Students interested in joining the class can enroll at www.mchenry.edu/register or learn more about the culinary program at www.mchenry.edu/culinary.