Welcome to the Court of Master sommeliers
Whether you’re a passionate wine enthusiast or a hospitality professional, you’ve found your place to explore the fascinating world of wine. For nearly 50 years, the Court of Master Sommeliers has been guiding wine lovers like you on their journey from first sip to deep expertise.
Our community brings together people from all walks of life who share one thing in common: a love of wine and a desire to learn more. Here, your curiosity meets world-class expertise in an environment that’s both inspiring and welcoming.
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The Online Introductory Sommelier Course
The Introductory Sommelier Course and Examination introduces students to the world of wine, the Court of Master Sommeliers Deductive Tasting Method, and the Court of Master Sommeliers Service Standards. The course is taught exclusively by Master Sommeliers.
Learn at your own pace, anytime, anywhere.
Gain exclusive insights from Master Sommeliers.
Build your wine knowledge and start your certification journey.
Your Journey Starts Now. . .
Preparation
Online Sommelier Course & Exam
- The online course is on-demand and self-paced study. Students have 180 days from the start date of the program to access course content and take the online exam.
- The Course contains approximately 25 modules and 18 wine tastings.
- The Exam is administered remotely on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays.
- This course is your gateway to deeper wine appreciation. Beyond certification, you’ll gain structured knowledge to enhance your enjoyment, make confident selections, and share your passion with others. The skills you learn will enrich your wine experiences for years to come.
Pricing
Online Sommelier Course & Exam $599
- 180 days unlimited access to Master Sommelier video lectures
- Deductive Tasting Method training
- Food and beverage pairing expertise
- Service and hospitality techniques
- Option to Purchase Introductory Sommelier Course Wine Kit or purchase your own wine from a provided list
- Online proctored examination
- Certificate and lapel pin upon passing
- Financial assistance available through our annual scholarship program.
Frequently Asked Questions
- The online Introductory Sommelier Course is presented as a series of video lectures taught by Master Sommeliers.
- Each video lasts approximately 15-45 minutes, covering major wine growing regions of the world, along with beer, sake, and spirits.
- The Master Sommeliers will discuss food and beverage pairings with each subject as well as proper service techniques.
- The videos are available on-demand for 180 days from the start date of the course, allowing students to review the material at their convenience.
- Closed captioning is available in English and Spanish.
- The online Introductory Sommelier Course features 18 wines presented in guided tastings using the Court of Master Sommeliers Tasting Method.
- Each wine is matched with a specific lecture topic, allowing students to link the theory of how the wine was made with how it tastes, while they practice describing it.
- The final wine tasting of the course will feature an introduction to the Court of Master Sommeliers Deductive Tasting Method.
- The students can choose one of two paths to procure the wines needed for the tastings in this class:
- Receive Introductory Sommelier Course wine kit from Master the World
- Upon registration, students will receive an email with instructions on how to redeem the wine kit through Master the World.
- Wine kit orders take 5-7 days to process plus shipping time, so please order right away. Shipping and handling included. Additional shipping rates may apply for expedited options or orders to HI. ADULT SIGNATURE REQUIRED UPON DELIVERY.
- At this time, wine cannot be shipped internationally, outside of the continental US (with the exception HI), or to the following US states: AK, AL, AR, DE, KY, MS, RI, SD, UT.
- Purchase alternative wine
- Receive Introductory Sommelier Course wine kit from Master the World
- Students who are not able to receive the wine kit will be provided with a list of alternative wines.
- In addition to the theory lectures and wine tasting, an integral part of our curriculum is wine service, hospitality, and the business of the sommelier. Instruction will include an introduction to wine service with guidance in restaurant service etiquette and the importance of hospitality.
- New to this program is an introduction to the business of the sommelier, which takes a behind-the-scenes look at the important role the sommelier plays in the success of a business, from its revenue and cost controls to its relationships.
What Students are Saying
“Absolutely loved it. I’m sad to finish it. Every instructor was amazing at explaining and easy to understand.”
“This was an incredible experience. I am not in the industry but after this I am inspired to learn more and continue my journey once I have had more time to study and practice my tasting techniques.”
“Had a very interesting and enjoyable time learning about wine and the specifics of becoming a sommelier.”
“Loved the personal schedule flexibility!”
“Everyone was friendly, informative, and motivational. They took the fear out of learning wine!”
Is the In-Person or Online Introductory Course right for me?
Choosing between the in-person or online Introductory Sommelier Course is a common dilemma that many students face. Even though both courses cover the same material, they each have different and unique benefits. The choice between the in-person course spanning approximately a day and a half and an online option spanning up to six months depends on your learning style, schedule, and preferences. Click the button below to learn about some considerations for each option.
