I’ve been researching the process one must go through to becoming a Certified Sommelier, and I wanted to ask for some advice from those of you who may have already been through this process. I’m relatively new to the world of wine and still have a long way to go before I can even think about taking my Level 1, but I’d like to start mapping out the best way to study and prepare myself for the exam, and the following exams.
I’ve read through Zraly’s Introductory book, and I’m about to tackle Sotheby’s Wine Encyclopedia. Are there any other books anyone would recommend?
Also, if anyone wants to explain the process they went through in order to study for these exams, including how much time it took to prepare yourself in between each exam, it would certainly be appreciated.
I’m aware that tasting is just as important, if not more important than studying, but since tasting can be expensive I’d rather start with what I know I can afford, which is a book or two. I taste wine on occasion, but I can study wine every day, if that makes sense.
Level one measures basic knowledge and you have a two day class if I remember correctly. No tasting part of the exam.
I believe level 2 is the certified exam and it has champagne service and some tastings. I took level 1 in Las Vegas. I heard the Vegas exam is harder than normal but I think passing is still 90% or so. There were some folks sitting next to me who failed though. In fact, I do know someone who has failed it…twice lol. He can get an MBA from a top university but can’t pass level 1 somm
What is your purpose for doing the program? Are you sure the CMS program is the right one for you? There are other wine education programs out there. The CMS program is very much focused on the hospitality side of the industry. The exams are not cheap, so make sure it is what you want, as opposed to something like the WSET or MW programs.
Specifically relating to the CMS exams, most wine savvy folks can squeeze through the Level 1 exam. I did zero studying and passed on my first attempt. I was in the business for several years already though. My father, who is not ITB but has above average wine knowledge, passed it his first attempt as well. He and I both took it in Vegas and out of maybe 200 people who took it, perhaps 15 did not pass. The exam itself is preceded by two days of education, most is very relevant to what is on the exam. Course materials are provided as well, again, very specific to what is on the exam. If you want to prepare for level 1, as well as set yourself on the path to level 2, find a local tasting/study group who are studying for the CMS exams. It is a big plus if there are folks who already passed level 2/are preparing for level 3 in the group. Ask around in restaurants or check social media sites (including meetup) to find one, it shouldn’t be too hard. For your own individual efforts, on their website, the CMS have recommended reading lists. Also check out the Guild of Sommeliers. They are a good educational resource and once you pass level 1, you get a free one year membership… at least you did when I passed, which was some years ago.
My purpose is mainly hospitality driven. I’m in the industry and hope to own a restaurant at some point, but I also want to attain a certification because it is a vehicle for learning about wine, and also just as a personal goal and gratification.
Chris, what do you do ITB now? I think the CMS is great for people who are actually on the floor or selling to people who ITB. The Intro test is just that INTRO. It makes you think about regions outside of the usual suspects. It is by no means a comprehensive exam. If you have a good basic understanding and listen closely to the exam, take good notes and don’t get loaded the night before the test 99% of the people will pass.
Level 2 is just a few notches above that - but with the added tasting and service. The tasting is written so it is not the pressure of a blind like in SOMM. Also the Service should be pretty basic for anyone with some time on the floor. But what it really does is set the ground work for the Advanced test which is a HUGE jump. If you do well on the Intro and it seemed easy and you were on top of the class they give you could probably take the level 2 in a few months.
Wine bible is a fun book and will serve well as an intro book. But save the time and just buy the latest Southbys. Add Oxford’s Wine Ency., Hugh’s Wine Atlas and Wine Grapes and you have 90% of the books you will need.
But - if you are on the floor and do not plan on being on the floor CMS might not be right for you and Wset might be a better path. Both will help you learn. Remember even with the mentioned Guild web site most of this is self taught.
I work for Kiawah Island Golf Resort. Was working at the Ocean Course clubhouse restaurant which has a good wine program and solid training.
Just took a job at another place on the island with no wine program, though, which leaves my wine training solely my responsibility and on my own personal time. I look to stay in the industry which is why I am most interested in the CMS.
I personally have not read the Wine Bible, but use Sotheby’s as my wine bible (for the record, not ITB, but have some education in wine sales/marketing).
Here is a very good round up and comparison of the various levels offered by the CMS, WSET and SWE.
You can also take levels1, 2, 3 & 4 online through the WSET as well as home study from http://www.phillywine.com
or other WSET Approved Program Providers see http://www.wset.co.ukfor a list in the US
Full disclosure: I teach for Phillywine.com.
Many go through courses from all 3 at some level.
This gives you a well rounded perspective and all knowledge gained from the courses is helpful in pursuit of the others.
Mark
