On Tuesday, April 16, Jeffrey Santicola accompanied 50 students on a full-day field trip to Christian Klay Winery in Chaulk Hill, Pennsylvania. This was the fourth year that IUP students attended the excursion. The trip is a culminating experience for students enrolled in Santicola's Wine and Wine Service course. Students from any major can enroll in the class, but they must be over 21 to enroll.
The students, mostly hospitality majors, toured the winery's facilities, including a newly remodeled barn venue, enjoyed a hayride, and participated in wine tastings. They also toured the winery's newly renovated distillery, Ridge Runner, before returning to Indiana.
According to the winery's website, Christian Klay Winery features "award-winning, estate-produced wines in a family-owned, boutique winery." Christian Klay has been a staple of the Ohiopyle area since the mid-1980s, named after owners Sharon and John Klay's son Christian. The location boasts a selection of around 100 varieties of grapes, a beautiful location, and a much sought-after destination for a variety of events, from weddings to special occasions. Christian Klay Winery is Fayette County's first commercial winery, which opened in 1994.
The field trip to Christian Klay Winery is not just a fun outing, but a crucial part of Santicola's course. It provides IUP students with invaluable hands-on experience in wine-tasting, production, and event planning. This practical exposure is a key component of their learning journey and helps them understand the complexities and nuances of the wine industry.
As Santicola aptly puts it, “This field trip is not just a break from the classroom, but a continuation of our students' wine journey.” He believes this experience is a stepping stone for them to explore a life-long activity, wine tasting, and encourages them to delve deeper into the vast world of wine. This field trip is not just a one-day event, but a transformative experience that broadens their horizons and enriches their understanding of the subject.