french wine scholar

Monday, 28 September 2020 10:58

Making Sense of the Numbers

Every wine appellation in France has a cahier des charges, a set of regulations that delineates the production zone and specifies viticultural practices and production standards.

In many instances, a single cahier des charges references one zone of production and multiple wine styles within it (e.g. Lirac red, white, and rosé; Rasteau dry red, plus red, white and rosé Vins Doux Naturels). Some single cahiers also incorporate complementary geographic denominations or dénominations géographiques complémentaires (DGCs) such as Languedoc Montpeyroux or Bourgogne Hautes Côte de Nuits. Other times, very different wines can be grouped under one single cahier as is the case for Beaujolais, Beaujolais Supérieur, Beaujolais + Named Commune, and Beaujolais-Villages.

Published in Blog

Wednesday, 04 March 2020 08:23

The Wines of the French Alps with Wink Lorch

From vineyards on the best-exposed limestone slopes of the Prealps, Savoie wines are made from a plethora of grape varieties, which are proving to be ideal in the face of climate change.

Wink Lorch published her second book, Wines of the French Alps: Savoie, Bugey and beyond in 2019, and it has already received rave reviews from Eric Asimov, David Schildknecht and the team at jancisrobinson.com.

Wink, known for her knowledgeable and entertaining presentations, will help unpick the somewhat complicated appellations of the tiny French regions of Savoie and its neighbours Bugey and Isère. She will focus especially on the story of the grape varieties and why the fresh, ever-improving wines of Savoie are only now emerging from their Alpine homeland for us all to enjoy.

Presenter: Wink Lorch

Wink is a wine writer and educator from the UK, who lives part of her time in the French Alps.

For over 25 years she has taught, entertained and written about wines of the world, contributing to many books and journals.

She has been a member of the Circle of Wine Writers for many years and is currently editor of its newsletter.

She was a founder and first chairman of the UK-based Association of Wine Educators, taught for over a decade on the WSET’s Diploma course and regularly speaks at seminars, especially on her speciality subject, the Jura.

Her first book, Jura Wine, was self-published in March 2014 and won the prize for best wine book in the 2014 André Simon Food and Drink Book Awards as well as being shortlisted for best book in the 2014 Louis Roederer Wine Writers' Awards.

She has published her new book, "Wines of the French Alps: Savoie, Bugey and beyond" in 2019.

About Wink's Latest Book

"Wines of the French Alps: Savoie, Bugey and beyond", published in July, is the second book from Wink Lorch, following her award-winning Jura Wine book. The new book turns the focus on the French Alpine regions of Savoie, Bugey and Isère, along with the Diois (home to Clairette de Die) and the obscure Hautes-Alpes further south.

As well as parts on history and local foods, the book includes a solid technical part, with chapters on the appellations, terroir, grape varieties (more than 45 of them, many indigenous!) and winemaking with a special section on sparking wines.

The largest part of the book includes profiles on almost 120 producers, with the greatest number those in Savoie and Bugey.

This 384-page book is illustrated by over 250 photographs, plus 13 original maps and geological diagrams. These wines are beginning to turn up on the lists of independent wine stores and restaurants around the world, so the timing is ideal to have an in-depth book giving the back-story.

Learn more & order here: www.winetravelmedia.com/shop.

WSG members enjoy a 20% discount off the price of book! Get your coupon code HERE

Learn more about Savoie wines:

Learn more about Savoie wine by joining our French Wines Study program.

Published in Jura & Savoie wines

Friday, 14 December 2018 06:08

Top 10 reasons students sign-up for French Wine Scholar

Thinking about signing up for the French Wine Scholar program? Be inspired by what our students are saying about the program and the top ten reasons they give for enrolling.

Published in Blog

Tuesday, 13 February 2018 04:14

Annual WSG Scholarships for Master of Wine Candidates

Applications are now CLOSED and will open in NOVEMBER 2021

Each year, the Wine Scholar Guild awards a full scholarship for each of the following programs to three students of the Institute of Masters of Wine: French Wine Scholar , Italian Wine Scholar and Spanish Wine Scholar study & certification programs.

These scholarships are designed to allow students preparing for the Master of Wine exam to further and strengthen their French, Italian or Spanish wine knowledge.

Published in Scholarships

Monday, 03 May 2021 17:08

10 Essential French White Wines

The white wines of France offer unrivaled perfection. With few exceptions, every vineyard growing white grapes is so planted not because reds won’t grow well there, but because whites will flourish. France’s white wines are not an afterthought or a consolation prize. These are vinous treasures worth exploring.

Published in Blog

Monday, 25 January 2016 00:00

Matt Coleman, FWS

Congratulations Matt Coleman, FWS for passing the French Wine Scholar exam with honors! Matt Coleman is General Manager and Sommelier at Crossings Restaurant in South Pasadena, CA. Matt is pursuing his wine education with the Court of Master Sommeliers and reflects on how his French Wine Scholar studies has and will help him:

"I feel that the Court of Master Sommeliers and Wine Scholar Guild work hand in hand. I am confident that with the preparation on French theory with FWS it will prepare me for the Court of Masters level 3 and 4"

1) Please let us know more about yourself and your passion for wine.

My interest with wine sparked while working at a local steakhouse in Pasadena that had a large wine program. At the time I was an Assistant Manager and from time to time I would sit in for wine tastings at the restaurant with the General Manager. I was able to get familiar with labels and varietals at a leisurely pace. When I became the General Manager and wine buyer I quickly realized that I had to start learning more about wine.

2) Please tell us more about your wine studies. What other wine certification programs have you followed and passed? If any, how do you think the FWS program complemented/added to your previous wine studies?

So, my good friend Manny and I decided to take Level 1 with the Court of Master Sommeliers and we passed. If you ask Manny, he’d tell you I was a wreck at the end. I found it all so over whelming. We started studying right away for Level 2 with the Court of Master that’s when our soon to be good friend Elliot, joined our group. Tasting and studying with them gave me a personal goal to try and catch up to them. They were amazing!

The big day came and we took Level 2 with Court of Masters. Once again nerves got a good hold on me. I was very lucky to have Manny and Elliot to keep me focused. We all passed and Elliot got top score of the class! I felt so privileged to have surrounded myself with two great gentlemen.

During the study period for Level 2, I had the opportunity to help my friend, Patrick, open his own restaurant, Crossings in South Pasadena. He gave me the opportunity to have a large influence on the opening bar and wine programs. We now do the list together as a team and have fun with wine maker dinners. As I explored my studies I am able to influence the wine list at the same rate.

Once Level 2 was complete, the wine bug had set in. There was nothing that could stop my studies. I learned about the Wine Scholar Guild from wine tasting classes at the Neptune School of Wine in Costa Mesa with Master Sommelier Peter Neptune. His class was brilliant and I was able to taste wines from many wine regions of France. Peter spoke so highly of the Wine Scholar Guild that the information couldn’t be rivaled. I completely agree! The format gives you an abundance of information without being over whelming while keeping my interest piqued the whole time!!! It was fun! I even canceled my cable TV so I could study more and not be distracted!

Please tell us how you think the FWS program will help you further your wine passion/carrier moving forward.

I recently passed the French Wine Scholar with honors! It took me a little longer but I am enthralled with the material. I quickly signed up for the Master-Level of Bourgogne right after. I feel that the Court of Master Sommeliers and French Wine Scholar work hand in hand. I am confident that with the preparation on French theory with FWS it will prepare me for the Court of Master Sommeliers level 3 and 4. The learning process has been so enjoyable that I don’t want it to ever stop.

I now see that the road to Master-Level will be a long journey that can’t be rushed. I look forward to taking advantage of everything the French Wine Society has to offer on my way to Level 3 (and 4) with Court of Masters!

Published in Top Exam Scorers

Tuesday, 30 July 2013 12:00

French Wine Scholar ™ online | Independent Study Format

THE FRENCH WINE SCHOLAR™ PROGRAM IS THE INDUSTRY'S MOST RESPECTED CERTIFICATION COURSE ON THE WINES OF FRANCE.

The French Wine Scholar™ education program is the most advanced, comprehensive, and up-to-date French wine course available.The syllabus takes a regional approach and discusses all French wine appellations and the factors that shape their identities.

The program provides committed students of wine with an unparalleled set of study tools that are designed to maximize learning and boost knowledge retention.

It was created by WSG Education Director, Lisa M. Airey CWE, with the support of the French Ministry of Agriculture which knighted her in recognition of the program's exceptional level of depth, accuracy, detail, and academic rigor as well as its impact on the global wine industry.

The French Wine Scholar study and certification program confers a post-nominal to wine professionals and enthusiasts who successfully pass the certification exam (Ex: John Smith, FWS). With a school network encompassing 30 countries on 5 continents, the FWS credential has true international recognition.

The French Wine Scholar ™ online | Independent Study Format includes:

Plus:

The French Wine Scholar™ online exam*
A suggested schedule of study with learning objectives for each region
Online quizzes and learning games for self-evaluation
Downloadable maps of all French wine regions
Pronunciation exercises to boosts your credibility
A list of recommended wines to sample on your own or in a tasting group hosted by students enrolled in the online program

Price: $595

Register now

Student Testimonials:

Peter Merriman
on Apr 18, 2021
"Great course! Would recommend for anyone interested in a substantial course on French wine. An especially excellent option for distance learning as it doesn't have a tasting component."
Robert Russel Rosales Johansen
on Apr 15, 2021
"I am really happy with the program provided by the WSG for the FWS course. But I am just a bit disapointed with the lack of questions about the important/historical people in the history of French wine in the exam it self. Thank you :)"
Jeremy Horrell
on Apr 9, 2021
"I thought the course and course information was fantastic - I love the in depth learning material way better than the WSET. "
Alison Scofield
on Mar 27, 2021
"Overall, I am quite pleased with the coursework through the Wine Scholar Guild. The study materials are top notch and they keep them up to date with the ever changing wine world. Although I did the independent-study version of French Wine Scholar, the Q&A forum was very helpful and I got quick responses to my questions. I would recommend WSG to anyone looking to take a deeper dive into their wine education!"
Minna Taatila
on Mar 16, 2021
"The French Wine Scholar is a thorough and in-depth collection of French wines, viticulture and legislation. History, geography and geology help to understand viticulture in different areas."
Nikhil Bhusal
on Feb 23, 2021
"The French Wine Scholar is a very well-thought-out program. The study material is easy to use and understand, making technical and tricky subjects, simple to cover. 100% recommended for those who are stepping into the world of wine!"
Efraime Calaunan
on Feb 17, 2021
"Although I do not carry any current certificates I chose FWSG to challenge myself & most importantly to learn . This course did exactly that! It is well structured & many resources are provided . I would definitely recommend this course to anyone who is willing to apply themselves to further their wine knowledge !"
Luis Felipe Campos
on Feb 16, 2021
" Participating in the French Wine Scholar program gave me knowledge far beyond wine; it's like a real deep dive into French culture"
Luis Felipe Campos
on Feb 15, 2021
"To get enrolled into French Wine Scholar program became me self confident in several aspects beyond french wine's knowledge itself; it's like a deep dive into french culture and history"
Adrian Matei
on Jan 15, 2021
" it is very good course with a good amounth of information given."
Chantal Honoré Molin
on Dec 22, 2020
"Great program! It would have been great to receive the access to the online learning earlier than 2 months before the classroom session. But great material et great school for the classroom learning."
Brianna Burns
on Dec 20, 2020
"The French Wine Scholar is a thoroughly enjoyable wine certification course that gives context above all. I love learning about why wine is the way it is, along with learning about what it is and where it comes from and FWS really provides that needed background. For anyone looking for an all-encompassing knowledge of French wine, this course is for you. I can't wait to take on the other courses!"
Joao Rocha Lima Neto
on Dec 17, 2020
"I think the program as very interesting. Hoping to have the Italian and Spanish program in Portuguese as well in a short period of time."
Renee Munro
on Dec 14, 2020
"The information in the French Wine Scholar program is expertly and beautifully presented, in a manner that even non-wine professionals like me can master. The content is fascinating and fun - I can't wait to sign up for the next course!"
Giuseppina Andreacchio
on Dec 13, 2020
"I attended FWS at West London School and the program proved to be excellent for the detailed description of the various regions and for the easy explanations of those regions that may seem a bit more complicated (i.e. Bourgogne). The program was clear, well delivered and the wines we tasted were a perfect example of the grape varieties or styles presented by the tutors. The course is perfect for anyone who is not familiar with French Wines or for wine professionals who want to improve their knowledge of French Wines further. I highly recommend the course which is very enjoyable but teaches you an awful lot at the same time."

*FWS online exam: You have one year from your registration date to take your exam (extension possible for a nominal fee). If you are registered for an online exam-sit and ready to schedule it, you may contact the WSG office This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Online exam candidates shall be equipped with a PC or Mac Desktop or laptop computer with working microphone, speakers and webcam and possess a good internet connection. The exam cannot be taken from a tablet, nor a mobile phone or Chromebook.

Alternately, the FWS program is available in a instructor-led online format with professional instructor support from with acclaimed wine educators Sharon Mclean, DipWSET, FWS and French Programs Director Matthew Landry

Study materials:

WE OFFER ALL THE NECESSARY TOOLS & SUPPORT TO MASTER THE WINES OF FRANCE:

#1 FWS Study Manual:

The 270-page, full-color study manual (6th Edition) provides all the information from which the test questions are derived. You do not need to research you own study materials; everything you need to know is in the manual.

Comprehensive coverage of France’s 14 distinct wine regions is presented in the following manner:

Viticultural history, wine culture and traditions
Location and climate and their effects on viticulture and wine style
Topography, geography and soils and their impact on the vine
Grape varieties and their organoleptic profiles
Viticulture and winemaking practices
Wine industry trends and economics
All AOCs with their regulations, wine styles and specificities

Regions covered: Alsace, Champagne, Bourgogne, Beaujolais, Jura, Savoie, Loire, Bordeaux, Southwest, Languedoc, Roussillon, Rhône, Provence, Corsica

Plus: A Foundation Unit covering: French wine law, grape varieties, viticulture, viniculture and a discussion of Old World vs. New World wine styles

French Wine Scholar™ study manual features:

#2 FWS Online Study Modules:

The FWS online study modules offer interactive presentations that are put into a measurable, meaningful format designed for maximum retention of content and ease of use. Each region of France is covered and dovetails nicely with the French Wine Scholar study manual. Study materials are available 24/7. If you’ve got a laptop and an internet connection, you’ve got a classroom!

French Wine Scholar™ online study modules features:

Quizzes and learning games for self-evaluation
Full audio narration to offer new insight and keep you engaged
Your place is automatically bookmarked/saved to resume where you left off
A progress bar tracks your accomplishments

#3 Professional Instructor Support

Online Independent Study: via the Q&A forum answered by Matthew Landry, French Programs Director
Online Instructor-led Format: via the Q&A forum plus email and live chat with acclaimed wine educators Sharon Mclean, DipWSET, FWS and French Programs Director Matthew Landry
In Classroom: via a local, certified instructor

Student Testimonials:

Peter Merriman
on Apr 18, 2021
"Great course! Would recommend for anyone interested in a substantial course on French wine. An especially excellent option for distance learning as it doesn't have a tasting component."
Robert Russel Rosales Johansen
on Apr 15, 2021
"I am really happy with the program provided by the WSG for the FWS course. But I am just a bit disapointed with the lack of questions about the important/historical people in the history of French wine in the exam it self. Thank you :)"
Jeremy Horrell
on Apr 9, 2021
"I thought the course and course information was fantastic - I love the in depth learning material way better than the WSET. "
Alison Scofield
on Mar 27, 2021
"Overall, I am quite pleased with the coursework through the Wine Scholar Guild. The study materials are top notch and they keep them up to date with the ever changing wine world. Although I did the independent-study version of French Wine Scholar, the Q&A forum was very helpful and I got quick responses to my questions. I would recommend WSG to anyone looking to take a deeper dive into their wine education!"
Minna Taatila
on Mar 16, 2021
"The French Wine Scholar is a thorough and in-depth collection of French wines, viticulture and legislation. History, geography and geology help to understand viticulture in different areas."
Nikhil Bhusal
on Feb 23, 2021
"The French Wine Scholar is a very well-thought-out program. The study material is easy to use and understand, making technical and tricky subjects, simple to cover. 100% recommended for those who are stepping into the world of wine!"
Efraime Calaunan
on Feb 17, 2021
"Although I do not carry any current certificates I chose FWSG to challenge myself & most importantly to learn . This course did exactly that! It is well structured & many resources are provided . I would definitely recommend this course to anyone who is willing to apply themselves to further their wine knowledge !"
Luis Felipe Campos
on Feb 16, 2021
" Participating in the French Wine Scholar program gave me knowledge far beyond wine; it's like a real deep dive into French culture"
Luis Felipe Campos
on Feb 15, 2021
"To get enrolled into French Wine Scholar program became me self confident in several aspects beyond french wine's knowledge itself; it's like a deep dive into french culture and history"
Adrian Matei
on Jan 15, 2021
" it is very good course with a good amounth of information given."
Chantal Honoré Molin
on Dec 22, 2020
"Great program! It would have been great to receive the access to the online learning earlier than 2 months before the classroom session. But great material et great school for the classroom learning."
Brianna Burns
on Dec 20, 2020
"The French Wine Scholar is a thoroughly enjoyable wine certification course that gives context above all. I love learning about why wine is the way it is, along with learning about what it is and where it comes from and FWS really provides that needed background. For anyone looking for an all-encompassing knowledge of French wine, this course is for you. I can't wait to take on the other courses!"
Joao Rocha Lima Neto
on Dec 17, 2020
"I think the program as very interesting. Hoping to have the Italian and Spanish program in Portuguese as well in a short period of time."
Renee Munro
on Dec 14, 2020
"The information in the French Wine Scholar program is expertly and beautifully presented, in a manner that even non-wine professionals like me can master. The content is fascinating and fun - I can't wait to sign up for the next course!"
Giuseppina Andreacchio
on Dec 13, 2020
"I attended FWS at West London School and the program proved to be excellent for the detailed description of the various regions and for the easy explanations of those regions that may seem a bit more complicated (i.e. Bourgogne). The program was clear, well delivered and the wines we tasted were a perfect example of the grape varieties or styles presented by the tutors. The course is perfect for anyone who is not familiar with French Wines or for wine professionals who want to improve their knowledge of French Wines further. I highly recommend the course which is very enjoyable but teaches you an awful lot at the same time."

FWS Online Exam:

The exam is composed of 100 multiple-choice questions and must be completed in 60 minutes.
The French Wine Scholar credential will be conferred to those individuals who sit the exam and achieve a score of 75 or higher.
Online exam candidates must have a computer (tablet not compatible), a good internet connection, a webcam and a microphone with speakers for proctoring purposes.
Candidate has one year from registration date to take the exam. When ready, the candidate may contact the WSG office at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to schedule the exam.

Register now

Industry Testimonials

"The French Wine Scholar manual has once again proven why the Wine Scholar Guild is one of the best wine education programs in the world. What I particularly found helpful was the background information at the beginning of the manual. The detailed information on the vineyard cycle, the effect of temperature and wind, the vineyard pests and plagues, understanding different trellising methods, etc., all helps build a solid foundation permitting a deeper understanding of wine. The manual clearly explains the methods for both vineyard and winery work, which allow the student to fully appreciate the French wine regions.

I have found many students are visual learners, and the quality of maps used by the French Wine Scholar manual are incredible. It really helps in understanding the material more thoroughly.

I found the manual to be very well organized, enjoyable level of detail and a study guide I will continue to recommend. Thank you for sharing this manual with me."

Nicholas Poletto

Director of Education at Kobrand Corporation

"The French Wine Scholar manual has once again proven why the Wine Scholar Guild is one of the best wine…

Nicholas Poletto

Director of Education at Kobrand Corporation
“The Wine Scholar Guild’s French Study Manual is simply the best and most comprehensive guide to French wine available today. Indispensable for any wine trade professional who works with French wine. Bravo!”

Martin Sinkoff

VP and Director of Marketing, Frederick Wildman And Sons

"Indispensable for any wine trade professional who works with French wine. Bravo!”

Martin Sinkoff

VP and Director of Marketing, Frederick Wildman And Sons