How do I Become a Master Sommelier?

In order to become a master sommelier, you first have to love and enjoy wine. You should learn about the various certification requirements that some restaurant managers expect their sommeliers to hold, and decide whether it is prudent to earn some of them. Finally, you need to find a venue in which to practice your skill.

A master sommelier is the expert in charge of the wine in a restaurant. One can also find sommeliers in clubs, hotels, and any other institution where the choice of wine in stock is considered to be an important factor. Sommeliers are in charge of selecting the wine, ordering it, storing it, and in many cases even selling the wine to clients and customers.

In order to become a master sommelier, you must have a taste for wine. It is important to be able to taste the subtleties in different wines. It is also important to be familiar with different vintages and wineries. A master sommelier can judge a wine by its look, taste, region of production, and year.

Sommelier training may be necessary to become a master sommelier in certain contexts. While there are no laws that require master sommeliers to earn credentials, many institutions in need of a wine specialist will see certification as evidence of proficiency. There are three levels of sommelier certification: introductory, advanced, and the MS diploma.

To become a master sommelier who is able to impress the most prestigious restaurant managers and owners, you can get your certification from the Court of Masters Sommeliers. This school was founded in London in 1977 and has become what many believe to be the premier institution for master sommelier coursework. While this kind of certification can be impressive and helpful for getting a high paying job in a five star restaurant, there are other avenues for master sommelier training.

Many wine lovers begin as servers in restaurants where high quality wine is treasured. These individuals find positions as master sommeliers because they have a passion for and knowledge of wine that they are able to demonstrate to restaurant owners who are looking for wine specialists. There are also many books and magazines dedicated to the world of fine wines. These can be excellent tools for learning about the industry.

In order to become a master sommelier, it is most important to find a venue in which to practice your skill. If you know a restaurant owner who would like to focus on carrying better wines, you may be able to find a starting position at his or her establishment. Offer to act as sommelier for dinner parties and other large events among friends. In many cases, the key to becoming a master sommelier is a matter of getting the experience.