To become a sommelier, one must study a wide range of subjects related to wine, including:
- Viticulture and winemaking: Understanding how grapes are grown and the processes involved in turning them into wine.
- Wine regions and styles: Familiarizing oneself with the different wine regions of the world and the unique styles of wine produced in each region.
- Wine tasting and evaluation: Developing the ability to taste and evaluate wines using the standard wine tasting method, including identifying aromas, flavors, and quality.
- Wine service and pairing: Learning about wine service techniques and how to pair wine with food.
- Business and management of wine: Understanding the business side of the wine industry, including how wine is bought, sold, and stored.
- Study materials such as books, online courses, and study groups are a good way to start, but the best way to prepare for the test is to gain practical experience working in the wine industry and tasting as many different wines as possible.
The Court of Master Sommeliers, the most well-known and respected certifying body in the field, offers a study guide and practice exams for each level of the certification.