Wine credentials and certifications can be a game changer when pursuing wine-centric roles
Wine credentials and their benefits are as varied as the people who seek them. Choosing the right program is important because each takes time, money and dedication. To help you make an informed decision, I’ve outlined the most common courses and how you can apply them to working in wine.
The Wine & Spirits Education Trust (WSET)
- The leading choice, most globally recognized for comprehensive wine certifications;
- Comprehensive, practical wine knowledge from vineyard to glass;
- Four levels of progression;
- Available from 800+ approved providers across 70 countries;
- A valuable stepping stone to advance to the Institute of Masters of Wine; and
- Highly valued by suppliers, distributors, restaurants and wineries.
Peter Marks, MW, recommends WSET as “the most valuable wine credential, because it offers a structured path from beginner to expert and covers all aspects of wine, including business. It’s also the best foundation for those seeking the Master of Wine qualification”.
Society of Wine Educators (SWE)
- Membership-based, nonprofit;
- Focused on high quality, responsible wine and spirits education;
- Four different professional wine education credentials;
- Membership and events are open to all wine professionals for a fee — being an enrolled or prior student is not required;
- Designed for wine industry and restaurant professionals, wine writers and judges; and
- Excellent networking resource for members.
- Specializes in wines of France, Italy, Spain and Germany
- Up to three study levels for each region;
- Available from 130 course providers online and in-person; and
- Highly valued by importers and distributors that are focused on wines from old-world countries.
Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS)
- Sets the global standard for beverage service across several continents;
- A four-level program, ending with the prized Master Sommelier Diploma;
- 279 professionals currently hold the title of Master Sommelier;
- Requires a deep, enduring commitment and a passion for wine and hospitality; and
- A revered and coveted certification program, CMS is exceptional for any wine professional but especially for those dedicated to hospitality and beverage service.
The Institute of Masters of Wine (IMW or MW)
- Regarded as the most respected credential in the global wine industry;
- Prior wine expertise required, WSET Diploma level knowledge is preferred;
- Program consists of a knowledge assessment, followed by three additional parts focused on depth of knowledge, analytical ability and communication skills;
- There are 418 Masters of Wine worldwide, based in 29 countries;
- Requires a deep, enduring commitment and a dedication to the wine industry; and
- For those who want to reach the pinnacle of expertise.
Peter Marks, MW, chose to pursue the Master of Wine after deciding on a lifelong wine career, seeking both professional credibility and personal growth. The credential deepened his understanding of wine across nature, history, culture, aesthetics and personal expression.
Additional valuable courses and certifications:
- Certified Italian Wine Profession with the Italian Wine Central
- Regional Wine Expert from the Napa Valley Wine Academy
- Regions offered: United States, Napa Valley, Oregon, Argentina, Bordeaux, Rhone, Georgia and Champagne
Free Courses for Beginners, Enthusiasts and Wine Pros
Getting your wine credentials can be expensive, but these free wine courses offer both resumé value and bragging rights.
- Rioja Wine Academy
- Napa Valley Cultivating Excellence from Napa Valley Vintners
- Discovering Bourgogne Wines from Vins de Bourgogne
- Introductory Course on Wine from Allison.com
- Wine School of Philadelphia – Free Wine 101
- Champagne Education from the Comté Champagne
There are a lot of wine industry roles, such as finance, logistics, administration or maintenance, that don’t require any wine experience or expertise. But wine credentials and certifications can be a gamechanger when pursuing wine-centric roles such as wine sales, wine buyer/manager, wine educator, wine steward or winery staff.
Even when not required, wine courses boost your knowledge, confidence and enjoyment of wine, while also offering networking benefits and career advancement opportunities.
Next time: Learn how you can up your networking game.
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This series is designed to help you find your place in our industry. Please send any ideas, topics, or questions you’d like us to address to Karen.wetzel@outlook.com