Independent Study Format

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

Student Testimonials:

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."
Charlene Denise Perez
on Dec 10, 2020
"Great Course, really learned a lot"
Thomas Trull
on Dec 10, 2020
"French Wine Scholar gives you a remarkably deep insight into the history, geology, and character of French wines and regions that will give you a leg up whether in your wine career or just completing your own cellar."

*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:

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."
Charlene Denise Perez
on Dec 10, 2020
"Great Course, really learned a lot"
Thomas Trull
on Dec 10, 2020
"French Wine Scholar gives you a remarkably deep insight into the history, geology, and character of French wines and regions that will give you a leg up whether in your wine career or just completing your own cellar."

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.

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

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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 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 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 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
"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
"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 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
"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 would recommend the FWS program to any trade member wishing to increase his/her expertise in French wine and validate the same. This is wine education at its best!"

Louis-Fabrice Latour

Chairman at Maison Louis Latour
"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