Sommeliers Academy - Wine Ambassador Course

Through lectures, role play, and practical cases, students will learn how to properly present and serve wines, manage glassware and temperatures, understand food pairing, and address clients’ expectations. These skills will be validated by an exam at the end of the two intense days of learning.

It is important to understand this course is focusing of practical competencies, and that no wine theory or wine tasting will be covered beside what is required by the food pairing module.

Previous knowledge required

While extensive wine knowledge is not mandatory, it is advisable for applicants to possess basic knowledge of wines, such as WSET Level 1, CWA SA Wines Introduction, or Sommeliers Academy South African Wine Level 1 (can be done online). Additionally, applicants should have some experience as a waiter in the hospitality industry or its equivalent to fully benefit from the course.

Syllabus

• Overview of the Sommelier Career Path.
• Wine rules for effective hospitality service.
• Service preparation, glassware, and temperature management.
• Wine service techniques, including bottle and glass handling.
• Customer service skills, covering wine language, etiquette, and handling complaints.
• Guidance on effective communication, both verbal and non-verbal.
• Understanding food pairing principles.
• Strategies for guiding patrons to optimize sales.

Outcome

At the conclusion of the training, students’ competencies will be assessed through a written exam. Graduates will be awarded a Wine Ambassador pin, symbolizing their accomplishment, to proudly display on the floor. The Wine Ambassador Certification marks the initial phase in the journey toward becoming a Sommelier.

Price

R5500 inclusive of VAT for the full two days at our Cape Town campus. Harare, Durban or Johannesburg campus on request.