Italian Wine Scholar®
The most complete and in-depth certification on the wines of Italy
1,052 global graduates
Program Overview
Embark on a journey deep into the heart of Italy with the Italian Wine Scholar® Program, the quintessential offering from Wine Scholar Guild — the international authority on authentic wines of place.
The Italian Wine Scholar® program sets the industry standard as the most detailed and comprehensive certification program devoted entirely to the wines of Italy. It is composed of two separate units, that can be studied in any order:
- The Wines of Northern Italy (Unit 1)
- The Wines of Central & Southern Italy (Unit 2)
Tailored for dedicated wine enthusiasts and industry professionals, IWS is your passport to understanding the regions, myriad of indigenous grape varieties, art of winemaking, history and rich cultural traditions that make Italian wine so special.
Whether you're opting for the flexibility of online study or the immersive atmosphere of in-person classroom instruction, the IWS curriculum is as comprehensive as it gets.
Completion of the program doesn’t just reward you with a certificate; it confers upon you the sought-after IWS post-nominal initials, symbolizing advanced-level proficiency and industry-wide respect.
With the Italian Wine Scholar® program, you're not just learning; you're enriching your understanding and appreciation of Italian wine.
What's Included
From the comprehensive study manuals to interactive online modules, expert instruction and an engaging student community, every element is meticulously curated to foster a profound understanding and appreciation of Italian wine culture.
Study Manuals
Shipped to your address, each unit includes a study manual that includes all of the information you need to know. Immediate access to the corresponding e-book is also provided upon registration.
Online Study Modules
The IWS online study modules offer interactive activities in a measurable and meaningful format designed for maximum content retention and ease of use.
Expert Educators
Learn from the most notable names in the industry — seasoned wine professionals and educators accredited by Wine Scholar Guild.
Student Community
Network with the other students studying the Italian Wine Scholar®, form a tasting group and build your wine network.
Final Exams
Each unit includes a 100-question multiple-choice exam. The scores from both exams are added together and averaged for final assessment.
Certificate
Upon passing both units, receive your coveted Italian Wine Scholar® certificate and lapel pin. Add this reputed credential to your LinkedIn profile and résumé or CV.
Download the program brochure
Read full details about the topics covered in the Italian Wine Scholar Program.
Why People Choose Italian Wine Scholar®
Study Options
Choose from online or classroom formats based on your schedule and preferred learning style. Rest assured that the final exam and certification remain consistent across all formats.
Independent Learning
Educator-Led Learning
Classroom Learning
Format
Study at your own pace, from anywhere at any time.
Study from anywhere, anytime with the addition of 10 live educator-led lectures.
Course Schedule
Italian Wine Scholar • Online Educator-Led Learning
Live lectures are recorded and available for replay if you cannot join.
Unit 1
Class Session | Duration | Topics |
---|---|---|
February 6 | 45 mins | Fundamentals |
February 13 | 45 mins | Valle d'Aosta and Liguria |
February 20 | 45 mins | Piemonte Part One |
February 27 | 45 mins | Piemonte Part Two |
March 6 | 45 mins | Lombardia |
March 13 | 45 mins | Emilia-Romagna |
March 20 | 45 mins | Trentino-Alto-Adige |
March 27 | 45 mins | Veneto |
April 3 | 45 mins | Friuli Venezia Giulia |
April 10 | 45 mins | Final review |
Unit 2
Class Session | Duration | Topics |
---|---|---|
April 15 | 45 mins | Welcome |
April 22 | 45 mins | Toscana Part 1 |
April 29 | 45 mins | Toscana Part 2 |
May 6 | 45 mins | Umbria, Lazio & Molise |
May 13 | 45 mins | Marche & Abruzzo |
May 20 | 45 mins | Sardegna & Calabria |
May 27 | 45 mins | Puglia & Basilicata |
June 3 | 45 mins | Campania |
June 10 | 45 mins | Sicilia |
June 17 | 45 mins | Final Review |
Study in-person at one of our 130 Course Providers around the world.
Educator Support
Interact with WSG educators via the online community.
Interact with WSG educators via live sessions and online community.
Receive in-person classroom support from WSG-certified educators.
Length of Study
12 months from date of enrollment to take the exam.
1 live course every 10 weeks with 12 months from date of enrollment to take the exam.
Schedule and length of term vary by Course Provider.
Wine Tasting
Maximize learning with a list of recommended wines to sample on your own.
Maximize learning with a list of recommended wines to sample on your own.
Enjoy tutored wine tastings in the classroom.
Study Manual (Print & E-book Versions)
Interactive online learning modules, pronunciation exercises, quizzes and flashcards
Live Course Instruction
Online Student Community
Final Exam
Certificate, Lapel Pin and Use of Post-Nominal Upon Passing
Start Date
Start Anytime
Unit 1 starts February 6
Unit 2 starts April 15
Varies by Provider
Price
$725
$845
Varies by Provider
Frequently Asked Questions
- Passionate wine enthusiasts and aficionados, students of wine, avid travelers and life-long learners craving deeper knowledge and expertise of Italian wine styles and regions.
- Aspiring sommeliers seeking a leg up and competitive advantage in the industry.
- Professionals in the hospitality sector aiming to elevate their expertise with specialized knowledge.
Have a different question? Feel free to contact us.