The Master Sommelier Introductory Sommelier Course is the first of four required steps to become a Master Sommelier.  The course is given over a two day period with candidates receiving intensive instruction and training by a team of Master Sommeliers on wines and spirits knowledge, proper wine service, and blind tasting. The intent of the Introductory Sommelier Course is to provide wine and hospitality professionals with a thorough introduction to the world of wines and spirits at the highest professional standards.

 

Preparation

A candidate’s success in the Introductory Sommelier Course will depend on a combination of career experience and level of preparation.  A written test is given at the end of the course with all topics having been covered during class lectures.  However, it is highly recommended that candidates read a good wine encyclopedia such as Tom Stevenson's The New Sotheby's Wine Encyclopedia in preparation before the actual class takes place.  The book’s introductory sections and cover pages for each regional entry should be of special note as well as a review of basic spirits and beer production.

The Introductory Sommelier Course is open to all beverage and hospitality professionals interested in pursuing the highest standards of wine service and product knowledge in a fine dining room setting. Candidates come from restaurant, wholesale and retail backgrounds.
The Introductory Sommelier Course is also a prerequisite for the Certified Sommelier Examinations, which includes a written theory exam, a blind tasting exam and a practical wine service exam.

Candidates who successfully complete the Introductory Sommelier Course with a minimum 60% passing score on the written examination:

• Have received intensive instruction over two days from a team of Master Sommeliers.
• Have received an overview of all the major wine growing regions of the world, as well as instruction in spirits, beer, saké and proper wine service.
• Have passed a written examination based on the material covered throughout the 2-day course.
• Are capable of discussing, buying and serving a comprehensive range of alcoholic beverages with confidence and skill.
• Have learned the Deductive Tasting method of blind tasting from some of the best wine tasters in the world--a tasting method that is an integral part of the Certified Sommelier Exam, the Advanced Course and the Master Sommelier Diploma. The acquired tasting skills will enable them to confidently recognize both wine quality and flaws.
• Have received adequate direction to successfully study and prepare for the Certified Sommelier Exam, the prerequisite for the Advanced Course and Master Sommelier Exam itself.