In this section we provide a brief overview of some the qualifications and courses available to candidates working in the wine, drinks & food business. We will be constantly expanding this section and we welcome any comments you may have regarding these or other courses.
Please note - this section is being updated.
If you have any wine course/service for possible inclusion on this site, please do not hesitate to contact us at:
info@vintnersjobs.com
Wine & Spirit Educational Trust (WSET)
Probably the most well known and widely used series of qualifications in the UK. The WSET offer an expanding range of courses starting with an introductory two day course for the enthusiastic amateur right through to full Diploma which is held in very high regard. Courses can be taken at fixed times during the year and at a number of locations across the UK. Very often candidates starting out on their career in wine might get the opportunity to do an introductory WSET while working for one of the larger off-licence groups (paid for by them) – this is a very good starting point and should be pursued if at all possible. Prices on application – further info to come.
+44 (0)207089 3800
http://www.wset.co.uk
Plumpton College, England
One of the most popular and highly regarded colleges offering a large range of established courses covering all aspects of viniculture and oenology – including WSETs and courses on the business and marketing of wine. Plumpton is set in idyllic south coast countryside and offers a number of agricultural courses that neatly complement any interest in wine. Further info to come.
+44 (0)1273 890454
http://www.plumpton.ac.uk/
Master of Wine
This is the pinnacle of achievement for most wine aficionados and it confers an almost mythical status upon those dedicated and bright enough to achieve it. However not having does not for one moment preclude an immensely successful career in the wine and drinks business. This a worldwide organisation whose members are essentially the who’s who of the wine world. Further info to come.
Contact Helen Williams at:
http://www.masters-of-wine.org
Sotheby's Wine Courses
Sotheby's runs two wine-tasting courses: the Varietal Course and the Regional Course. Each course comprises six 90 minute classes designed to develop a broad knowledge of wine and wine tasting. You also get the chance to taste eight interesting wines each week in what Sotheby's describes as 'a fun and informal atmosphere'.
The Varietal Course explores different grape types including Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot; Chardonnay and Riesling, Pinot Noir and Shiraz/Syrah, and Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon. The Regional Course focuses on major wine producing areas: Bordeaux, Burgundy, Loire and Alsace, Champagne and Rhône, Spain and Italy, and the New World (United States, Australia, New Zealand, Chile, etc.). The Varietal Course takes place in January/February and September/October, and the Regional Course in May/June and November/December. A discount on tuition is offered if the two courses are taken consecutively.
please contact:
Alexandra Floyd
Sotheby's Wine Department
Tel: 020 7293 5727
Fax: 020 7293 5961
Alexandra.Floyd@sothebys.com
http://www.sothebys.co.uk/wine
The London Wine Academy
The London Wine Academy offers wine courses and wine tastings at levels ranging from the enthusiastic beginner to those working, or those seeking to advance their careers, in wine.
http://www.londonwineacademy.com