Sommelier Certificate Course FAQ

Course Schedule and Format

• Frequency: Offered twice annually, in spring and fall.

• Schedule: Tuesdays OR Wednesdays at 6PM EST for 21 consecutive weeks. Class duration is two hours, potentially extending 15-30 minutes.

• Location: In-person classes at La Maison, Midtown Manhattan. Remote learning via Zoom is also available (limited to five students per session).

Course Structure

• Content: Theory, lectures, and wine tasting of at least 85 benchmark wines from around the world.

• Final Exam: Held in-person at La Maison. No remote option currently available.
  

Remote Learning

• Participation: Remote students join live via Zoom and must purchase their own wine (up to 90 bottles per semester, costing up to $3000, or alternatively by-the-glass at local restaurants).

• Wine Purchase: Accessible from major wine shops (e.g., Astor, Total Wine).

• Limitations: Remote students cannot attend in-person classes without advance permission. Remote option limited to five students.
  
  

Registration

• Options: Choose between "In Person" or "Remote" at registration. Switching from remote to in-person requires advance permission.

• Recordings: All classes are recorded and available for study.
  
  

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: Experienced NYC sommeliers and industry professionals.

• Content: Interactive lectures, SSA Handbook, tasting of at least 40 benchmark wines, customized weekly quizzes.

• Topics Covered: Major wine regions, business and service techniques, current and historical vintages, market trends.
  
  

Who Should Enroll?

• Target Audience: Professionals seeking career advancement and wine enthusiasts wanting to expand their knowledge.

• Networking: Opportunities within the NYC wine industry.
  
  

Why Choose SSA?

• Instructors: NYC-based sommeliers and industry professionals.

• Regions Covered: All major wine production areas.

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

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

Course Fees and Payment

• Fee: $3,195, including classroom wines. Remote students purchase wine separately.

• Payment Options: Full payment or four monthly installments of $798.75. Payments accepted via credit card (Stripe) or check.

• Additional Inclusions: GuildSomm International, Stölzle, and Coravin discounts; SSA Lecture Handbook, tasting notebook, wine key, quizzes, virtual class recordings, final exam.
  
  

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.

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: Maximum of four absences allowed.

• Make-Up Classes: 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: Deductive tasting method compatible with WSET Level 3-4 and CMS Advanced programs.
  
  

Payment Methods

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