How To Become a Sommelier?

What is a sommelier?

According to one definition, a sommelier is: ‘A waiter in a restaurant in charge of serving wine.’

It is possible to be called a sommelier without any formal qualification. Learning on the job is common and many people progress from being a waiter or barman to a sommelier.

However, qualifications such as the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) are extremely well respected on a CV, and can propel you even more quickly into a sommelier role, sometimes without ever having worked in a restaurant. WSET offers levels 1 (Beginner), 2 (Intermediate), 3 (Advanced) and 4 (Expert), and you can start from any of the levels 1-3 based on your current skills and knowledge.

WSET focuses on all aspects of the wine industry. The curriculum covers viticulture, grape varieties, production processes, tasting techniques, food pairing, and more. Students will receive a WSET certificate or diploma - which is the highest, expert level, certification provided by WSET.