Program Overview

French Wine Scholar™ Study & Certification Program

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

The French Wine Scholar™ program is the most advanced, comprehensive, and up-to-date French wine course. 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 designed to maximize learning and boost knowledge retention.

SEE WHAT THE FRENCH WINE SCHOLAR IS ALL ABOUT!

ONLINE LEARNING CLASSROOM LEARNING

STUDY OPTION 1 | ONLINE LEARNING

Earn the French Wine Scholar™ (FWS) post-nominal via the online, independent study format OR enroll in the instructor-led online format, including 15 on-demand webinars and live online Monthly Meet-Ups with your instructors.

The French Wine Scholar™ Online Learning Format Includes:

A comprehensive 330-page study manual with illustrations, maps, and graphics, available in print + e-book formats
1-year access to our interactive and user-friendly e-learning platform, including online learning modules, pronunciation exercises, quizzes, and flashcards
15 on-demand webinars with acclaimed wine educators (instructor-led format only)
Monthly thematic online Meet-Ups with your instructors to reinforce the course materials (instructor-led format only)
The FWS Study Roadmap: A Checklist For Success, providing a suggested schedule of study
A list of recommended wines to sample on your own or in a tasting group
An online exam sit (100 multiple choice questions)

Choose your format:

Independent Study Format

Start anytime

Price: $750

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Instructor-Led Format

Next session starts April 20

Price: $950

LEARN MORE

STUDY OPTION 2 | CLASSROOM LEARNING

French Wine Scholar™ classes are offered by licensed program providers and delivered by an approved FWS instructor. This study format includes:

Classroom instruction with tutored tastings
A copy of the FWS study manual
Access to the FWS online study modules & quizzes
In-classroom exam sit

All FWS program providers teach from the same Wine Scholar Guild-developed presentations and are supplied with uniform teaching materials.

Naturally, each instructor has a unique teaching style. As a result, the wine selection will vary by market, and the class length, class structure (weekly, biweekly, weekends, etc.), and price will vary from location to location. Still, the content will be the same no matter where you take the class. For many, the classroom experience helps hammer home the theory; a tutored tasting component brings each region to life. In addition, many students find the set schedule helpful in keeping up with their studies.

FIND A PROVIDER NEAR YOU

STUDY MATERIALS

We offer all the necessary tools and support to master the wines of France!

FWS study manual in print + e-book formats

The 330-page study manual provides all the information derived from the test questions. You do not need to research your study materials; everything you need to know is in the manual.

Comprehensive coverage of France's 14 distinct wine regions:

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
Fundamental Unit covers the history of France, its political geography, physical geography, climate, soils, grapes, training systems, and viticultural & vinicultural practices, plus an essential piece on how AOCs are counted and why different sources quote different figures.
Particular focus on current regional trends and challenges
Pie charts of pertinent AOC production numbers and area under vine by wine region
Learning objectives that provide detailed assessment criteria for mastery

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

FWS Online Study Modules

French Wine Scholar™ online study modules feature:

The FWS online study modules offer interactive presentations in a measurable, meaningful format designed for maximum content retention 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. So if you've got a laptop and an internet connection, you've got a classroom!

Quizzes and learning games for self-evaluation
Educational graphics, videos, and pronunciation exercises to offer new insight and keep you engaged
Auto save function for resuming where you left off
A progress bar tracks your accomplishments

About the French Wine Scholar:

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). In addition, the FWS credential has true international recognition with a school network encompassing 30 countries on five continents.

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.

Student Testimonials:

Sujay
on Mar 25, 2023
"This course provided extensive knowledge about wines coming from France. The history, culture, climate, grapes and method of production is given in so much detail that you want to know everything about this country. I loved this program."
Chan Kwok Hin
on Mar 22, 2023
"The comprehensive online module which is very good for the Wine Scholar Guild learning. "
Bingjie Chen
on Mar 17, 2023
"The programme does offer me a deeper understanding of French wine history. The knowledge of topology, climate and their impacts on viticulture helps to comprehend Terroir. "
David Nelson
on Mar 10, 2023
"The FWS course did an excellent job of weaving together the history, geology, climate and the particulars of viticulture and winemaking for the various wine districts and did leave me with a good and basic understanding of wines of France. The instructors were extremely knowledgeable, responsive and attentive. The materials were extensive and plentiful, if a bit overwhelming. "
Trish Nunan
on Mar 7, 2023
"Overall an excellent programs that gives the student a broad base for study including subjects of geography, geology, history, viticulture, biology and chemistry. I would feel quite confident discussing French wine and advising others based on my understanding of grape varieties, regions, production methods and quality levels. Highly recommended. "
Rana El Masri
on Mar 5, 2023
"Going into the French Wine Scholar Program is a journey of extensive detailed information of everything French wine. From up to date background information of the regions to the videos in the online resources... this program looks to be executed by professionals of obvious passion to that country and its wines. "
Rana El Masri
on Mar 5, 2023
"Going into the French Wine Scholar Program is a journey of extensive detailed information of everything French wine. From up to date background information of the regions to the videos in the online resources... this program looks to be executed by professionals of obvious passion to that country and its wines. Studying the program was definitely a journey for me, and I feel much more confident and knowledgeable in the wine world in general having taking it. "
Rusk Elatassi
on Mar 2, 2023
"Loved the course . Soaked up a lot of useful information. Definitely recommend! "
Tim Patrick
on Jan 29, 2023
"The combination of instructor-led sessions, an excellent study manual and top-notch e-learning modules made this a great experience. My comprehension of wine articles and my confidence when selecting French wines have both improved enormously."
Vince Truong
on Jan 21, 2023
"As someone who has sat multiple wine exams now, I believe the WSG content is the best that I have seen in the wine education world, especially with regards to their use of technology (for online modules, practice exams, flashcards) and multiple formats and styles of learning. Because of that, they help you learn more deeply no matter what your learning style is. They're also simply more interesting to study and the information is more current and relevant."
Doug Homoky
on Jan 7, 2023
"Loved the course. I thought I had a pretty good understanding of French wine, but I learned so much! I would recommend for any wine lover. "
Doug Homoky
on Jan 7, 2023
"Loved the course. I thought I had a pretty good understanding of French wine, but I learned so much! I would recommend for any wine lover. "
Reynald NICOLAS
on Jan 6, 2023
"Not usually a fan of online training, I have to admit that I really enjoyed the instructor-led program format, combined with an outstanding study manual. I would definitely recommend this course to anyone wishing to deepen his knowledge of French wines. "
Faraz T Doan
on Dec 21, 2022
"Anyone who has the slightest curiosity about France and French wines will be amazed as how vast and different are French wines from other parts of the world and from each other. "
Clifford C Raisbeck III
on Dec 21, 2022
"Just a brief Shout Out that Tanya Morningstar and Regina D were Superb Instructors with High Energy and Depth of Knowledge."

Disclaimer: WSG offers wine study courses that are targeted to both beginners and those more experienced in the wine industry. While WSG has received many accolades, awards, and testimonials, WSG is not an accredited institution or school. WSG does not guarantee or warrant that any employer or school will recognize WSG wine study courses. While WSG knows that it is a well-recognized institution within the multi-national wine community, it cannot guarantee anyone success in their profession or vocation.

“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
"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 education programs in the world."

Nicholas Poletto

Director of Education at Kobrand Corporation
"The 6^th edition of the French Wine Scholar study manual is a magnificent piece of work! It’s beautifully arranged in distinct segments in an easy to read format, with bring-to-life photos and graphics.

The regions are thoroughly presented starting with the history, then moving to climate, geology, grape varieties, wine styles, appellations and culminating with serving suggestions.

Numerous distinguished wine experts contributed to this newest edition with all the latest information. I only wish I had this book when I began studying French wine!"

Peter Marks, MW

VP of Education at Constellation Academy of Wine

"I only wish I had this book when I began studying French wine!"

Peter Marks, MW

VP of Education at Constellation Academy of Wine
"The French Wine Scholar program… is the best, most comprehensive course of study for French wine, bar none. The program is well thought out and presented. Anyone wanting to learn about French wines needs to take this program; there is no better program out there"

Kevin Cleary

Owner/Director at Vermont Wine School

"Anyone wanting to learn about French wines needs to take this program; there is no better program out there"

Kevin Cleary

Owner/Director at Vermont Wine School
"Wine Scholar Guild is the new standard bearer for teaching wine to students of all learning styles.

The combination of their text book, online learning modules, quizzes and webinars combined with our presentation of their slides and wines of the regions makes in-depth learning great fun.

Their various Master programs are insanely challenging.

I cannot think of a better way to dive in deep on the wines of France to prepare for the Advanced & Master Sommelier exams, WSET Diploma or MW"

David Glancy MS, CWE, FWS

Founder of San Francisco Wine School

"I cannot think of a better way to dive in deep on the wines of France to prepare for the Advanced & Master Sommelier exams, WSET Diploma or MW"

David Glancy MS, CWE, FWS

Founder of San Francisco Wine School
"The French Wine Scholar Program is the most comprehensive approach that I have seen in regards to the wines of France, arguably the most important of all the wine-producing countries in the world. The level of detail and quality of the materials make this program a must-do for any serious student of wine"

Peter Neptune, MS, CWE, FWS

Founder of The Neptune School of Wine

"The level of detail and quality of the materials make this program a must-do for any serious student of wine"

Peter Neptune, MS, CWE, FWS

Founder of The Neptune School of Wine
"French wines are not easy to understand but for those committed to learn the result is uniquely rewarding.

The Wine Scholar Guild’s French Wine Scholar Study Manual provides a 360 guide that will take the student on an unparalleled journey through history, terroirs, winemaking, food paring and much more.

My most sincere appreciation goes to the WSG team for their great work to make French wines so much fun and easy to learn, for wine trade professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Bravo and “merci”!"

Xavier Barlier

Sr. VP, Marketing & Communication at Maisons Marques & Domaines

"My most sincere appreciation goes to the WSG team for their great work to make French wines so much fun and easy to learn"

Xavier Barlier

Sr. VP, Marketing & Communication at Maisons Marques & Domaines
"The French Wine Scholar Program is the industry's most comprehensive, in-depth course on the wines of France"

Jay Youmans, MW

Founder of Capital Wine School

"The French Wine Scholar Program is the industry's most comprehensive, in-depth course on the wines of France"

Jay Youmans, MW

Founder of Capital Wine School
"To anyone for whom knowledge of the subject of French wine is important, I would give the French Wine Scholar Study Manual my most complete commendation. It presents clearly, concisely, and accurately the sometimes intricate French viticultural appellations and rules, bringing them into one handy book where a quick reference provides one with the information. Organizing by region is practical and efficient for the reader.

As important as the technical knowledge is, though, I find equally interesting and important the work that has gone into explaining the history of each region--political, religious, social--and the geology and climate of each region. There is no true comprehension of wine without an understanding of the history of how a variety(varieties) came to be planted where they are, the geology of the soil on which these grapes are planted, and the effect of climate--in short to truly understand the term "Terroir" one must have knowledge of all of these aspects. This Manual provides a serious reader with these essentials.

Indeed, there is much to be learned by anyone who reads this book. At least there was for me.

To everyone who worked so diligently to prepare and write this Manual, I thank you."

Peter Weygandt

Founder & owner at Weygandt-Metzler Importing

"To anyone for whom knowledge of the subject of French wine is important, I would give the French Wine Scholar Study Manual my most complete commendation."

Peter Weygandt

Founder & owner at Weygandt-Metzler Importing
"Looking for informative, current and easy to understand materials to support your wine studies? WSG is the answer.

Access to top industry professionals, detailed information and insider-tips will help you achieve your goals".

Christophe Tassan MOF

Maitre Sommelier UDSf and MOF Sommellerie

"Looking for informative, current and easy to understand materials to support your wine studies? WSG is the answer."

Christophe Tassan MOF

Maitre Sommelier UDSf and MOF Sommellerie
"I truly enjoyed studying and preparing the French Wine Scholar course. I found a lot of new facts and fascinating detail about French wine regions we do not cover in WSET programs. After every regional chapter, I took a nice trip to my local wine shop in Saint Louis, Alsace to buy and taste the many discoveries. There are no hidden corners any more in the vast French wine landscape for me and this is a value that I am really looking forward to passing on to many curious Swiss wine drinkers."

Juan Lo Bello

Wine Educator at Wein-Werkstatt

"I truly enjoyed studying and preparing the French Wine Scholar course. I found a lot of new facts and fascinating detail about French wine regions we do not cover in…

Juan Lo Bello

Wine Educator at Wein-Werkstatt