What’s the difference between “viticulture” and “viniculture”?
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Dear Dr. Vinny,
What’s the difference between “viticulture” and “viniculture”?
—Nanette, Morro Bay, Calif.
Dear Nanette,
Not much. While “viticulture” refers to the science, study and production of grapes, “viniculture” refers to the same thing, but for grapes specifically for wine. I think that the terms are used somewhat interchangeably—many schools have degrees in viticulture that are specifically geared toward wine grape production.
Since we’re talking degrees, it would be good for me to mention enology (sometimes spelled oenology), which is the science and study of winemaking—different than the grapegrowing and harvesting science of viticulture or viniculture.
—Dr. Vinny
