Can anyone become a sommelier?
Christopher Davis
Updated on March 21, 2026
Pathways to becoming a Sommelier typically involve a mixture of on-the-job experience and education. Gain some experience working in the hospitality industry – for example, at a restaurant or a winery. This diploma is the highest qualification anyone can attain worldwide in the wine, spirits, and alcohol industries.
How long does it take to become a sommelier?
After passing the Introductory Sommelier Course Examination, students are eligible to sit the Certified Sommelier Examination (Theory, Tasting and Service). Students have three years after passing the Introductory Examination to sit the Certified Sommelier Examination.
How do I become a sommelier?
How Anyone Can Become a Sommelier
- Get a job in the restaurant industry.
- Buy a case of wine a week.
- Hit the books.
- Form local study groups.
- Make friends at a wine bar.
- Follow wine vendors in your city.
- Travel to wine regions.
- Volunteer at a conference.
How long does it take to become a Level 1 sommelier?
Level 1: Introductory Course A minimum of three years in the beverage industry is recommended. The actual course in CMS is a fast paced, two-day tasting and theory lecture followed by a multiple choice exam.
Is sommelier a good career?
It’s not only an interesting and exciting career track. It can be downright lucrative. You can even watch a sommelier documentary if you’re so inclined. A master sommelier salary is one of the highest in the hospitality business, while an advanced or certified sommelier salary is competitive, too.
How hard is the sommelier exam?
The exam is considered to have the highest failure rate of any test in the world, with a pass rate of approximately 10%. Only nine candidates are reported to have ever passed the exam on a first try. Given the high failure rate each candidate has three years in which to try to pass.
How much does it cost to be a sommelier?
Formal certification through the Court of Master Sommeliers costs anywhere from $595 to $1,195 per course or exam, and rises each year.
How much can a sommelier earn?
How much does a Sommelier make in California? The average Sommelier salary in California is $66,284 as of July 28, 2021, but the range typically falls between $50,949 and $81,587.
Is being a sommelier worth it?
How much does it cost to become a sommelier?
Cost to be a Certified Sommelier An introductory sommelier course through the Court of Master Sommeliers is just $525, with a follow-up course at $395 and an exam fee of $395. If you pass the exam on your first try, this means you can become a Certified Sommelier with your out-of-pocket costs totaling about $1,315.
How can I get certified as a sommelier?
Register for sommelier classes or exams. The Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS) is an international organization that offers sommelier courses and qualifying exams in North America or the United Kingdom to get certified as a master sommelier. You may need to create a CMS Student ID before you can register online for a CMS course.
How many sommeliers are there in the world?
The Court of Master Sommeliers, established as one of the foremost bodies for the profession, conducts four levels of tests: introductory sommelier, certified sommelier, advanced sommelier and master sommelier. Only 269 professionals have earned the Level Four distinction since the Court’s inception in 1969.
How much do you get paid as a wine sommelier?
*Depends on business, location and your skill level. Pay can be based on percentage of wine sales. (2016 figures) Jane Lopes is a wine sommelier in the rigorous New York market. Step 1: Teach yourself everything about wine.
What kind of job does a sommelier have?
A sommelier, sometimes called a wine steward, manages the wine cellar at a restaurant. He or she may also work in sales and assist diners with choosing a wine that compliments their meal.
