Only those who pass the final course from the Court of Master Sommeliers can call themselves Master Sommeliers.Īlthough you don't have to take a sommelier course to sit for the examination, you'll be far more likely to pass if you have fully prepared. It's more of a theoretical degree and is focused more on wine knowledge than on practical wine service. This degree isn't something that the Court of Master Sommeliers oversees, but it does qualify you to be a sommelier. It's also important to note that many sommeliers choose to get a Master of Wine degree. According to the Court of Master Sommeliers, only 10% of people taking this examination receive a passing score. The examination involves practical wine knowledge, service expertise, and much more. Often, this requires a course of study, lasting from about six months to two years. Master Sommelier Diploma - This is the most advanced degree in wine stewardship.This is a good choice to make yourself more competitive in the job market, and it's a necessary step toward becoming a master sommelier. The examination requires practical knowledge of wine service, blind tasting ability, and significant study. Advanced Sommelier Certificate - This more advanced certification level requires a three-day intensive course and builds on the skills of a certified sommelier.This is a good choice if you're planning to work in a less competitive environment. Certified Sommelier Certificate - This mid-level form of certification requires wine stewards to pass an additional examination, which will require significant studying.It's a good place to start your education, but employers may not see it as full qualification. Introductory Sommelier Certificate - This basic program requires only a few days of coursework, as well as intensive independent study and a lengthy examination.
Each level requires a different amount of coursework and time, so it's important to decide right away which certificate is right for you: There are actually several different levels of sommelier certification, as defined by the Court of Master Sommeliers.