I get a lot of folks looking to somehow start a career in the wine industry, and really don't know where to begin.  So, this blog is dedicated to all of you folks who may or may not want to quit their day job for your favorite hobby.
Firstly, unless you are indeed quite wealthy to begin with, it's common knowledge amongst industry folks to accept that the wine industry won't make you too rich (unless you have a brilliant idea).  So, this industry is perfect for folks who aren't truly expecting to make much money, but are looking more for the social/educational experience of it all.  That being said, there a few directions that you can consider:
1.  If your fascination with wine truly revolves around the social element (you just love sharing and drinking it with people), you should consider volunteering with Vinvillage.com :-)  We need folks to help set up and run events, especially as we grow.  There are other wine social networking groups out there as well, groups that also do events, but I would say that would be a great direction to start with. 
2.  Get a job at a wine bar/retail store.  It's a great way to get to know products and other wine industry professionals, and would satisfy that social butterfly in you.  The main drawback to this, is you usually have to carry and lift cases of wine around, or at least multiple bottles, so you must be in decent shape. 
3.  Take some classes. to see which aspect of the wine industry intrigues you most.  Dustin is rolling out his list of classes, and I will soon follow.  If you actually want credentials, read Dustin's blog from a few weeks back, he wrote about different credentials.  SDSU also offers wine classes.  Unless you are serious about working in a restaurant as a buyer, you really don't need tons of credentials (however, things are becoming more competitive).
4.  Are you a ham?  Do you have thick skin? Do you get off when people take your advice?  Consider becoming a broker for a small portfolio.  There are tons out there.  Ask one of your favorite industry people about which books you could represent?  The big wine distributors are much more difficult to tap into, so I would start out small.  Again, a lot of reps don't have any certifications, so it is not a prerequisite if you don't feel like going to class. (Slacker!)
5.  The next level along these lines is becoming a winery representative.  Perhaps you know someone who owns a winery?  Ask if they need help with sales/promotions.
6.  Become an intern.  Especially at harvest time, there are ample opportunities to help pick and crush grapes, usually you work for almost free, but it's great experience and connections! 
7.  Perhaps your a very scientific-minded person.  If so, take some classes and become a winemaker. 
8.  Check out the www.winejobs.com website. They also post internships there as well. 
 
I hope this helps!  If you have further questions, please email me, I am happy to help.
Lindsay Pomeroy
Wine Director, Dussini Mediterranean Bistro
Director of Events and Marketing, Vinvillage
Principal Consutant, Wine Smarties