A master sommelier expertly matches wine and food.
A sommelier is a trained expert in wine and other spirits. The international Court of Master Sommeliers awards the internationally recognized title of master sommelier, which signifies the highest level of knowledge and expertise. The Court of Master Sommeliers, founded in 1977, is the examining body for the master sommelier diploma. The organization was formed to promote excellence in hotel and restaurant beverage service, A master sommelier manages the full spectrum of wine-related affairs and has an extensive and global knowledge of wine theory and history. Certification is accomplished by passing four levels of examinations administered by the Court, concluding with the master sommelier diploma examination.
Instructions
1. Apply online with the Court of Master Sommeliers to take the introductory sommelier course and exam. No formal requirements are necessary to enroll for the introductory course; however, the Court recommends that you have at least three years experience in wine service. Pay the required fee.
2. Pass the introductory sommelier exam with a minimum 60 percent score to qualify to take the certified sommelier exam.
3. Register online for the certified sommelier exam. Read the list of suggested study titles provided by the Court of Master Sommeliers. Pass all three segments of the certified sommelier exam: a blind tasting of two wines, a written theory examination and a practical service examination.
4. Apply online to the Court of Master Sommeliers' academic admissions committee for an invitation to the advanced sommelier exam. Show proof that you have passed the introductory and certified sommelier exams and have the mandatory five years experience in wine service. Pay the applicable course and exam fee.
5. Attend three days of intensive lectures and tastings conducted by a team of master sommeliers. Take a two-day examination in three parts: practical restaurant wine service and salesmanship, a written theory examination based on advanced sommelier knowledge and a blind tasting of six wines. Pass the exam with a minimum score of 60 percent in all three sections.
6. Accept an invitation by the Court of Master Sommeliers to take the master sommelier diploma exam. Pay the applicable exam fee. Pass all three sections: an oral theory exam, a blind tasting of six wines and a practical wine service exam with a minimum score of 75 percent for each individual section. Pass all parts of the exam within three consecutive years or retake the entire exam.
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