The four levels of sommelier recognized by the Court of Master Sommeliers are:
- Introductory Sommelier: This is the first level of certification and it covers basic wine knowledge and service.
- Certified Sommelier: This level focuses on the service and professional presentation of wine, as well as an in-depth understanding of wine production and history.
- Advanced Sommelier: This level delves deeper into the intricacies of wine and includes blind tasting, wine and food pairing, and a more extensive understanding of the business of wine.
- Master Sommelier: This is the highest level of certification and it requires a deep knowledge of all aspects of wine, including its production, history, service, and business, as well as the ability to consistently identify wines through blind tastings.