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Italian Wine Scholar®

The most complete and in-depth certification on the wines of Italy

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1,052 global graduates

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Starts March 21

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75 hours of study per unit

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Online or classroom study

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From $725 per unit

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.

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Study Books

Shipped to your address, each study manual for the two units of the program provide all the information you need to know. Immediate access to the digital e-book is also provided upon registration.

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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.

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Expert Instructors

Learn from the most notable names in the industry — seasoned wine professionals and educators accredited by the Wine Scholar Guild.

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Student Community

Network with the other students taking the Italian Wine Scholar, form a tasting group and build your wine network.

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Final Exams

Each unit includes a 100-question multiple-choice exam. The scores from both exams are added together and averaged for final assessment.

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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 detailed IWS curriculum

Read full details about the regions covered and the chapters included in both units of the 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 both formats.

Online Learning

Classroom Learning

Format

Study online, at your own pace, from anywhere at anytime. Unit 1 and Unit 2 may be studied in any order.

Learn in-person at one of our 120+ Approved Program Providers around the world.

Instructor support

Study with WSG’s own acclaimed educators. Join an optional, supplementary monthly live Q&A session and interact with your instructors via the online forum.

Receive in-classroom support from WSG-certified instructors.

Length of study

Self-paced with up to 12 months to take your exam, per unit of study.

Exact study schedule and length vary by provider.

Wine tasting

With list of recommended wines to sample on your own.

With tutored wine tastings in the classroom.

Study manual (print & e-book), per unit

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Online learning modules, pronunciation exercises, quizzes and flashcards

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On-demand review lectures

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Online student community

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Final exam for each unit

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Certificate, lapel pin and use of post-nominal upon passing both units

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Start date

March 21

Varies by provider

Price

$725 per unit

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.