Are you interested in becoming a sommelier, but don't know where to start? Wine schools and sommelier certification offer the perfect opportunity for those who want to learn about wine and its service. From comprehensive courses that cover everything from grape varieties to food pairings, to specialized classes on specific regions or styles of wine, there is something for everyone. For those looking to work in restaurants, completing a certification course and obtaining a sommelier diploma provides an edge over other candidates when it comes time for hiring. Read on to find out more about these educational opportunities and how they can help you take your knowledge of wine and career prospects one step further. 

Wine courses can be taken online or in a classroom setting, depending on the school and the type of course. Generally, these classes cover all facets of wine knowledge, from identifying different varietals to understanding their production methods. Wine tasting is enjoyable in addition to being a useful skill to learn. It is an extension of understanding how wine from different countries and particular vineyards will differ in flavor, quality, and price. You will learn that different vintages matter too. The best wine schools also offer up-to-date information about current trends in the industry and helpful tips and tricks for serving wine in restaurants. There is more to wine than you might think and it is important for anyone working in a restaurant or licensed premises to know at least something about it. There will be those asking for advice when making their selection and you can become their informed and trusted adviser. Being well-informed about wine is all about customer service and providing the best possible kind of hospitality. There is nothing like a certificate to prove to everyone that you know more about wine than many others who have not taken the time and trouble to study it in more detail in terms of its origins and how that affects its taste, scarceness, and desirability. 

For those looking to take the next step and become certified sommeliers, classroom courses offer an advantage, as they allow for direct interaction with instructors and fellow students which can help bring a unique level of understanding to the material. Additionally, some schools also offer real-world experience through internships at local wineries or restaurants. There are, however, online courses available too which can prove more convenient and flexible, and will save on travel costs. It can encourage many to take the course that might not have, otherwise, if it had not been made so convenient to complete and end up certified for. It may be a situation where an employer cannot spare their employee for any longer than necessary, yet will value the expertise they bring after the course, which determines the way it is completed. 

Once you have completed your coursework, it's time to take the sommelier exam. The exam is an industry standard for certification and consists of a written and tasting portion. The written section tests knowledge about grape varieties, production methods, and service etiquette, in addition to food and wine pairings. The tasting portion evaluates the ability to identify different types of wines, assess their quality, and explain why certain combinations work better than others. 

Continuing education is also important for those looking to stay current in the industry. Taking additional courses or attending seminars will keep your knowledge up-to-date and help you stay ahead of the competition. This can be especially beneficial for those looking to become professional sommeliers, as it will give them a better understanding of the wine industry and current trends in the field. Whether you are looking to become certified or just learn more about wine, schools and sommelier certification courses offer a wealth of knowledge and experience. With a mix of classroom instruction, online learning, and hands-on experience, these courses provide the opportunity to become an expert in the field. 

So don't wait any longer – expand your wine education today!