Introductory Sommelier Course and Examination
The Court of Master Sommeliers, Americas has a four-level education and examination program, beginning with the Introductory Sommelier Course and Examination.
The Introductory Sommelier Course and Examination, offered in-person and online, introduces students to the Court of Master Sommeliers, the Court of Master Sommeliers Tasting Method, the Court of Master Sommeliers Service Standards, and is taught exclusively by Master Sommeliers.
Students attending the two-day in-person course should come prepared with theoretical knowledge of the world of wine and beverages and what is expected of a sommelier working in the hospitality sector.
Pricing
- In-Person Introductory Sommelier Course and Examination: $699
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Who Should Attend This Class
Registration for the in-person Introductory Sommelier Course and Examination is open to anyone 21 or over in the hospitality, wholesale, and retail sectors of the food and beverage industry, anyone considering a career as a professional sommelier, or anyone interested in learning more about wine.
Please see the Examination Site Policy that defines where a student may sit depending on geographic location and exam history.
Preparation
In-Person Course & Exam
- A student's success in the in-person Introductory Sommelier Course and Examination will depend on a combination of career experience and level of preparation.
- It is expected that students come prepared having reviewed and studied the topics covered in the Introductory workbook. Upon enrollment, students receive access to download the Introductory workbook.
- In preparation, prior to enrollment, it's recommended that students acquire a general guide to wine to learn about the major wine producing countries and regions. The basic points of beer and spirits production should be covered as well. Review the Introductory Recommended Study Resources for book recommendations.
In-Person Course and Exam Details
- The Introductory Sommelier Course and Examination takes place from 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM over two days. The exam takes place at approx 4:00 PM on day two, followed by a results and sparkling wine reception.
- The course is intense and fast-paced - covering a lot of information, and by no means all, about the world of wine and other beverages, several tasting exercises, and elements of wine service.
- The examination consists of 70 multiple-choice questions reflecting the content of the course and workbook and must be completed within 45 minutes. A minimum score of 60% is required to earn the Introductory Sommelier Course and Examination certificate and lapel pin.
- After passing the Introductory Sommelier Course Examination, students are eligible to sit the Certified Sommelier Examination (Theory, Tasting and Service).
- Students have three years after passing the Introductory Examination to sit the Certified Sommelier Examination. If this opportunity is not undertaken within the three-year window then the Introductory Sommelier Examination must be re-taken.
Students who successfully complete the Introductory Examination have achieved the following:
- Received intensive instruction from a team of Master Sommeliers
- Received an overview of all the major wine growing regions of the world, as well as key information on spirits, beer, saké and correct wine service
- Passed the Introductory Sommelier Examination
- Are capable of discussing and serving with confidence a comprehensive range of beverages
- Learned the Court of Master Sommeliers Deductive Tasting Method (DTM). The DTM is an integral part of the Certified, Advanced and Master Sommelier Diploma Examinations.
- Skills acquired during the Introductory Sommelier Course will enable Sommeliers to recognize wine quality at a basic level
- Received appropriate direction in preparing for the Certified Exam, which is the prerequisite for undertaking study for the Advanced and Master Sommelier levels.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How does the waitlist work?
The amount of students that get in from the waitlist depends on cancellations. Typically, if students cancel it is at least 30 days prior to the program. If a seat becomes available, notification is sent via email.
Can I be enrolled in a program and on a waitlist?
Yes, you can be enrolled in a program and be on as many waitlists as you would like. Should a seat open up from the waitlist, and you accept the seat, we can transfer your payment over.
Is there a fee if I cancel from the waitlist or decline a seat when offered to me? No.
What is your cancellation policy?
What is your retake policy?
Students who score less than 60% are eligible to retake the Introductory Sommelier Examination online for a fee of $125. Students must wait at least 14 days from their last attempt before retaking. To register to retake, contact info@mastersommeliers.org
What attire is required for the Introductory Course & Examination?
Attire for the Introductory is smart or upscale casual; jackets and ties are not required. No tank tops, shorts or jeans, please. We advise against wearing perfume, cologne, scented lotions, or similar products as this can disrupt you or others while tasting wines.
What is your electronic policy?
No electronics are allowed in the examination rooms. Attendees are NOT permitted to record the lectures.
Can the workbook be mailed?
We do not mail the workbook. Students may purchase a physical copy of the workbook to receive prior to enrollment through Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/dp/1733571906. Note: purchasing through Amazon is optional, the workbook cost will not be deducted from the enrollment fee.
Can I take the Introductory Course & Examination if I am under 21 in Canada, Central, or South America?
It is without exception that candidates must be 21 years of age.
Can I use the GI bill?
Do you offer hotel accommodations?
No. Attendees are responsible for their own transportation and accommodation arrangements.
Can I skip the Introductory Course & Examination and take the Certified Examination?
It is without exception that all candidates must pass the Introductory Sommelier Course & Examination prior to taking the Certified Examination.
How long after the Introductory Course & Examination do I need to take the Certified Exam?
The time the CMS allows between passing the Introductory Sommelier Course & Exam and taking the Certified Sommelier Exam is 3 years; 5 years with a recommendation from a Master Sommelier. After the elapsed time, students are required to retake the Introductory Sommelier Course & Exam in order to apply for the Certified Exam.
Can I take Introductory Course & Examination and the Certified Examination back to back?
We recommend students only take these two examinations back to back if they are in the service industry and proficient with their tasting and service skills. The Certified Sommelier Examination has a pass rate of 60% and it is lower for many who take the Certified Sommelier Examination directly after taking the Introductory Course & Examination. We introduce the tasting technique and the style of service that is examined at our Certified Sommelier Examination in the Introductory Course, and taking them back to back does not give a candidate a lot of time to practice these items. If you feel that you are prepared for both then you may register for both.
Source: https://www.mastersommeliers.org/courses/introductory-course-examination
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