Ruairi Kavanagh
Wine Science student Ruairi Kavanagh aspires to make his own organically grown wines after his studies.
Programme: Postgraduate Diploma in Science in Wine Science
“After finishing my undergraduate degree in biomedical science, I started working in a laboratory for a winery. I really fell in love with the industry – I work well under pressure, so the intensity and stress that comes along with vintage really suits me.
“Wine science is all about the science of grape production and winemaking. From pruning vines to filtering the final wine, we learn everything from how to taste wine to how to run a wine business.
I love how practical the course is – along with lectures, we pick our own grapes, process them and make our own wine.
“All of this is done on-site, at a winery on Waiheke Island. It really puts the academic side into perspective.
“The lecturers in this course are truly exemplary. They are all incredibly passionate about what they do and will always help you out in all aspects of your life, not just study. Teacher or student, we all do this course because we love wine, and it really makes for a great environment to be in and learn from.
“I hope to travel to the northern hemisphere after my degree to do a vintage during their season. I want to learn as much as I can to eventually go on to making my own, organically grown wines.”