To become a sommelier, one must complete two of four levels: Introductory Sommelier Course and Exam, Certified Sommelier Exam, Advanced Sommelier Course and Exam, and Master Sommelier Diploma Exam. The program is recognized worldwide and requires a minimum of three years of industry experience. Courses are taught by Master Sommeliers and include exams on wine knowledge, proper service, and blind tasting. Passing the exams earns a sommelier certification and the ability to progress to higher levels of training.
To earn sommelier certification, you must successfully complete two of the four levels to become a master sommelier or wine steward. These levels are “Introductory Sommelier Course and Exam” and “Certified Sommelier Exam”. The remaining two levels leading to master certification are the “Advanced Sommelier Course and Exam” and the “Master Sommelier Diploma Exam”. Developed by the Court of Master Sommeliers, this program is recognized as one of the best by hospitality industry professionals around the world.
To start the introductory sommelier certification course, a minimum of three years in the wine and beverage industry is preferred. The course is a fast-paced two-day course, covering areas such as proper service, wine knowledge and one of the most important aspects of being a sommelier: blind tasting. Those with industry experience may find the class to be a bit of a review, but it’s an essential step in getting certified as a sommelier.
The Court of Master Sommeliers also recommends that participants review certain books to gain a broader understanding of the material to be tested. This ensures that those who wish to obtain sommelier certification have a detailed knowledge of everything related to the sommelier service. The course is taught by Master Sommeliers and, at the end of two days, a multiple-choice exam is held. If the test is passed, answering at least 60% of the questions correctly, the student can move on to the next level, which is the “Certified Sommelier Exam”.
The “Certified Sommelier Exam” does not include courses; consists of a one-day exam. Each exam is divided into three parts: a written part, a blind exam and a service exam. The written portion of the test contains questions about things like world wines and grape varieties, and the service exam tests the ability to serve wine or champagne properly. Blind tastings are done to demonstrate the ability to identify a wine’s virtues and flaws, as well as inform the customer which wine would best pair with their cuisine.
A score of 60% or higher earns the student a sommelier certification and a pin showing their achievement. Students can also progress to the next two levels of sommelier training, working towards master sommelier status. Classes are offered at various locations throughout the year, and courses typically cost several hundred dollars. Scholarship funds are usually only available for the two most advanced courses and exams.
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