Italian Wine Essentials
Your gateway to the captivating world of Italian wines
Program Overview
Italian Wine Essentials presents the often-complex world of Italian wine in an accessible and engaging way.
Explore the culture, cuisine, history, viticulture and winemaking principles behind the most influential wine regions of Italy to fast-track your understanding into the intricate world of Italian wine.
Italy is home to over 400 appellations. Italian Wine Essentials (IWE) introduces you to 39 of the most well-known, divided into three vibrant modules—Wines of Northern Italy, Central Italy and Southern Italy.
Each module highlights the viticultural and vinification techniques behind the most important Italian ‘need to know’ wine styles.
Each wine is presented within a regional and cultural context while landmarks and traditional cuisine are highlighted to complete the curriculum.
Italian Wine Essentials (IWE) is more than an introductory course; it's a prelude to a lifelong romance with Italian wines, a launchpad to the internationally revered Italian Wine Scholar® Certification Program, vibrant WSG Member Community and the first step towards wine mastery!
Download the program brochure
What's Included
From a comprehensive study manual to interactive learning resources, expert instruction and an engaging student community, every element is meticulously curated to foster a profound understanding and appreciation of Italian wine culture.
Study Manual
Shipped to your address, the beautifully designed 125-page, coursebook, rich with photographs, infographics & maps, contains all the information you need to know. Immediate access to the digital e-book is also provided upon registration.
Online Study Modules
Access high-quality interactive e-learning activities designed to enrich the study manual and support different learning styles.
Expert Instructors
Learn from the most notable names in the industry—seasoned wine professionals and educators accredited by Wine Scholar Guild.
Student Community
Network with the other students taking the Italian Wine Essentials, form a tasting group and build your wine network.
Final Exam
The course includes a 50-question multiple-choice exam covering all of the essential topics of the course.
Certificate
Upon passing, receive your coveted Italian Wine Essentials certificate. Add this reputed credential to your LinkedIn profile and résumé or CV.
Online Course Schedule
Your study will be guided during 6 live classes taught by expert instructors. The schedule below applies to the online study option. The classroom study schedule may vary depending on the provider.
Class Session | Date | Time (ET) | Topic | Class Highlights | |
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1 | Tuesday May 28 | 12:00pm noon-1:00pm | Orientation |
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2 | Tuesday June 4 | 12:00pm noon-1:00pm | Introduction to Italy |
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3 | Tuesday June 11 | 12:00pm noon-12:45pm | Sparkling and Sweet Wines |
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4 | Tuesday June 18 | 12:00pm noon-1:00pm | Northern Italy: Piemonte, Veneto, Lombardia and Friuli Venezia Giulia |
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5 | Tuesday June 25 | 12:00pm noon-1:00pm | Central Italy: Toscana, Umbria and Marche |
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6 | Tuesday July 2 | 12:00pm noon-1:00pm | Southern Italy: Sicily, Sardinia, Campania and Puglia |
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Exam | On request | 45 minutes | Schedule the exam when you’re ready. You have 12 months from the date of your enrollment to take the online exam. |
Study Options
Choose from online or classroom formats based on your schedule and preferred learning style. Rest assured that the final exam and certification remain consistent across both formats.
Online Learning
Classroom Learning
Format
Study online from anywhere at anytime.
Learn in-person at one of our 130+ Approved Program Providers around the world.
Instructor Support
Study with WSG’s own highly acclaimed educators and interact with fellow students and your instructor on the community forum.
Receive in-classroom support from WSG-certified instructors.
Length of Study
6 live classes with up to 12-month access to your online classroom and to take your exam.
Study schedule and length of term vary by provider.
Wine Tasting
Maximize learning with a list of recommended wines to sample on your own.
Enjoy tutored wine tastings in the classroom.
Study manual (print & e-book)
Online e-learning modules
Live Course Instruction
Online Student Community
Final Exam
Online
In the Classroom
Certificate upon successful upon completion of exam
Price
$475
Varies by Provider
Frequently Asked Questions
• Inquisitive wine enthusiasts wanting to become more familiar with the intricacies of Italian wine
• Aspiring wine professionals
• Hospitality professionals new to the world of Italian wine
• Anyone wishing to become more knowledgeable about Italy and its wine and food culture
Have a different question? Feel free to contact us.