Sommelier Certificate Course FAQ

Course Schedule and Format

• Frequency: Offered twice annually, in spring and fall.
  Schedule: Choose Tuesdays OR Wednesdays, 6 PM EST, for 21 consecutive weeks. Each class lasts approximately two hours, with potential extensions of 15–30 minutes.
  Location:

  • In-person: Midtown Manhattan.

  • Remote option: Limited to five students per session (via Zoom).

Course Structure

• Content: Theory, lectures, and wine tasting of at least 90 benchmark wines from around the world.

• Final Exam: Held in-person at our classroom space in Midtown Manhattan. No remote option available.

Remote Learning

• Live Zoom Participation: Remote students join live classes via Zoom and must purchase their own wines.
  Wine Purchase: Accessible from major wine retailers (e.g., Astor Wines & Spirits, Total Wine).
  Limitations: Remote students cannot attend in-person classes without advance permission.

Registration

• Enrollment Options: Select "In Person" or "Remote" at registration.

• Switching Modalities: Moving from remote to in-person requires advance approval.

• Students may not switch between Tuesday and Wednesday class sessions.

• Class Recordings: All classes are recorded and accessible through our student portal.

Course Overview

• Objective: Comprehensive study of oenology and significant wine regions, designed to prepare industry professionals.

• Certification: Passing the final exam awards a Sommelier Certificate diploma and pin from the SSA.

Instructors and Curriculum

• Faculty: Courses are led by NYC-based sommeliers and industry professionals.
  
  Topics Covered:

  • Major wine regions and wine laws

  • Business and service techniques

  • Historical & current vintages

  • Market trends
    
    Study Resources:

  • SSA Lecture Handbook (downloadable PDF)

  • Weekly interactive quizzes

  • Tasting of 90+ benchmark wines
    

Who Should Enroll?

• Hospitality professionals advancing in their careers.

• Sommeliers, beverage directors, and consultants refining their expertise.

• Serious enthusiasts looking to deepen their knowledge.

• Networking: Students gain valuable industry connections within the NYC wine scene.
  

Why Choose SSA?

• Instructors: NYC-based sommeliers and industry professionals.

• Regions Covered: All major wine production regions on the globe.

• Course Materials: Continuously reviewed & updated to reflect industry trends, regions not traditionally covered.

• Interactive Learning: Cooperative learning environment with offsite tasting groups encouraged.

• Exam Preparation: Attendance, reading materials and weekly quizzes.
  

Course Fees and Payment

• Fee: $3,250, including classroom wines. Remote students purchase wine separately.

• Payment Options: Full payment or three monthly installments of $1,083. Payments accepted via credit card (Stripe) or check.

• Additional Inclusions: GuildSomm International membership, Stölzle, and Coravin discounts
  

Final Exam

• Format: Written portion and blind tasting component.

• Requirements: Minimum score of 80% for certification, 95% for distinction.

• Policy: Must be taken in person; offered twice a year.

• Postponement: Exam may be postponed with written permission.
  

Special Enrollment Options

Audit One Class

• Availability: You may register for any single class from our Course, "Audit One Class" (when available).

• Confirmation: Seat confirmations are non-transferable.

• Cancellation: Cancellations are accepted 24 hours before class begins. After 24 hours, the fee can be applied to another single class during the same session. Email us to inquire.
  

Policies

• Registration: Must be 21 years old. Payment and application required before course start.

• Seat Confirmation: Email confirmation required. Do not attend without confirmation.

• Absences: Advised to limit to three absences.

• Make-Up Classes: Up to 3 permitted with approval and availability in the next session.

• Dress Code: Casual business attire recommended.

• Recording Devices: Not permitted. Notify SSA if you do not wish to be photographed.
  

Cancellation and Refunds

• Certificate Course: No refunds after classes begin. No penalty refunds only when requested in writing a minimum of one month prior to first class date.

• Audit One Class: Refunds available 24 hours before class. Fee transferable to another class within the same session.
  

Comparison to Other Programs

• Unique Features: Founded in 1954, NYC-based, no prerequisites, seminar size classes, comprehensive certification program.

• Compatibility: Comparable with WSET Level 3 and CMS Advanced programs.
  

Payment Methods

• Accepted Methods: Credit cards via Stripe and checks (arrangements via email).