International Sommelier Guild

The HTE department sponsors the International Sommelier Guild at the Auraria Campus. Classes are conducted by the ISG, with the ISG holding responsibility for course administration and instruction. As host for the courses, the department coordinates the site and assists in answering questions regarding the program. The site coordinator is Michael Wray. He can be contacted at (303) 556-3393, or via e-mail at wraym@mscd.edu.

The courses are commonly taught on a Sunday, creating a schedule that allows most hospitality professionals to attend. The certificate courses are normally held from 10am-5pm each Sunday. The program for both certificates are taught as one course, with the same $1500 fee. The fees include two of the suggested textbooks, some class materials, and tastings. Each day the course activities include discussion, activities, and tastings of wine varietals and regions. The level 1 course lasts for the first four weeks of the 12 week program and discusses mostly varietals of wine. The level 2 course continues with varietal knowledge and expands to more in depth study of wine service, regions, spirits, and beer. Successful completion requires self and guided study in and out of class and dilligence in carrying out class activities and homework. Exams include written and blind tasting examinations.

The certificate classes are normally scheduled for three times per year, with Spring, Summer, and Fall semester dates beginning as published on the website, www.internationalsommelier.com. Course fees are subject to change. The classes are scheduled around all US and Canadian major holidays as some instructors and students travel in from Canada.

After successful completion of the level 1 and 2 certificates, students may apply to the Diploma program, which is normally taught 11am - 7pm over the 22 weeks of the course. The $3100 course fee includes one of the recommended texts, some materials, tastings, and exam fees. The class is designed as a guided study course requiring extensive in and out of class assignments and individual and group work. Most students find regular study groups helpful to success on the exam. The final exam includes written, oral defense, blind tasting, and service examinations.

Activities each week include detailed discussions, activities, and tastings of wine varietals, styles, and regions. A great focus is on wine service, and detection of wine quality down to the producer level in various wine regions of the world. Successful students often demonstrate great depth and breadth of knowledge of wine, spirits, beer, and food service.

Courses offered at Metro:

Wine Fundamentals I

An introductory course designed for the novice wine enthusiast lasting 24 clock hours. Whether building on an existing career in hospitality or enhancing your enjoyment of wines; the ISG Wine Fundamentals Certificate Level 1 curriculum provides an introduction to the basic aspects of sensory evaluation that are frequently overlooked when drinking wine. You will study the different components of wine appearance, aroma, and flavor.

This course offers a basic understanding of the major grapes used for making wine and their discerning characteristics as well as an introduction to fortified and sparkling wines. You will taste wines from around the world and be introduced to fortified and sparkling wine as well. Upon completion of this course you will have learned some basic wine terminology, understand label information, introduction to appellation concepts, rudimentary service techniques as well as some of the food and wine pairing theories. The goal is for you to gain an appreciation for all types of wines and feel comfortable and confident when selecting and buying wine.

The course runs one day per week. Successful completion of WFCL1 is required for admittance into WFCL2; WFCL1 examinations may be challenged, please read our policies for further information.

Wine Fundamentals II

A 48 clock hour course designed to build on your learning from the ISG Wine Fundamentals Certificate Level 1. You will be exposed to all elements involved in the wine business including viticulture, vinification, and regional appellation laws.

You will begin to develop your blind tasting skills by studying old and new world wine regions as well as sparkling, fortified wines and ales. In addition, you will build on your service skills, food and wine pairing techniques, and proper storage and wine management practices. The goal of this course is to advance your understanding of wine and wine making in order to prepare you for the Sommelier Diploma Program.

The course runs one day per week. Successful completion of WFCL2 is required for admittance into SDP; WFCL2 examinations may be challenged, please read our policies for further information.

The following information is an outline of what the ISG considers to be general guidelines for short essay writings and the level of knowledge that is expected at the completion of WFCL2 in order to successfully complete the examinations. We have provided two sample essays, one of a perfectly written short essay and its marking scheme and then the same question with a mediocre passing grade.

Please remember that in order to meet your educational entrance requirements for the SDP you must attain no less than 70% in each of your three examinations including the short essays. This same essay sample we have provided in the SDP page for reference of ISG expectations at the diploma level

Sommelier Diploma Program

The program is an intensive six-month course held once a week for eight clock hours. The International Sommelier Guild is the only professional body that accredits Sommeliers by direct instruction.

With our personalized approach to learning, we are not only able to tell you, but also to show you how to evaluate a wine, critique it, decant it, serve, and store it. Industry experts lead all of our lectures. The curriculum covers everything from viticulture, vinification, tasting techniques, cellaring, investment strategy, menu design, and regional analysis of wines, spirits, and ales. To ensure that your learning experience is second to none, we hold an annual conference to guarantee that each and every instructor has the latest information, research and development, new theories on food and wine pairing, and current trends in the market place. As a graduate, you will enter the industry informed and sought after.

This degree is aimed at being the defining benchmark for wine knowledge within the hospitality industry. We strive to support the professional development of our graduates including a referral program for career opportunities and sponsorship of tastings and events. Upon successful completion of the Sommelier Diploma Program, you will graduate with a diploma that designates you as a leader in wine industry with professional mobility.

The following information is an outline of what the ISG considers to be general guidelines for full essay writings and the level of knowledge that is expected at the completion of the SDP in order to successfully complete the examinations. We have provided two sample essays, one of a perfectly written essay and its marking scheme and then the same question with a mediocre passing grade.

Please remember that in order to successfully complete your diploma you must attain no less than 70% in each of your six components including your essays