A successful completion of a wine education certification program is required to become a wine specialist. There are several levels of certification, and you’ll need to research job openings to see what certifications are required for various positions. Wine consultant, wine buyer, and retail specialist are the most common jobs in this field. Although certification is not required for all positions in this field, having a thorough understanding of wine will increase your chances of becoming a wine specialist.
You’ll need to find a program that aligns with your career goals, and the majority of wine education programs are offered for-profit institutions. Although many of the education programs available to help you become a wine specialist are only a few days long, there are some that are longer. Consider completing a wine specialist certification course and a wine educator program to expand your job opportunities. The combination of the two courses will prepare you to work in a variety of positions in this field, including teaching wine courses.
Educator courses can last several years and cover topics such as specialty wines, the global wine and spirits business, and wine production. Because these are hands-on training opportunities, the majority of the coursework is completed on-site rather than online. Most employers will want to see that you have experience handling wine, so online courses may only be used to prepare for certification exams. Exams and study guides are costly, so live courses can provide you with hands-on experience with wine tasting and production. The official certification examination is administered most schools, and the cost of the exam may be included in your overall tuition.
Some students enroll in master wine courses, which are more advanced and cover a wide range of topics. Master wine tasting and master wine production are two examples of topics that could be covered in these courses. Master tasting courses can help you learn about the quality, appearance, and style of different wines, preparing you to become a wine expert. The various techniques used to make wine, as well as the methods used to grow grapes, are covered in production courses.
To become a successful wine specialist, you should take as many courses as possible. Many consultant and educator positions will require several certifications in the field, as well as a strong understanding of wine. Create a resume that reflects all of your expertise in the field once you’ve completed your education and training.