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12 Wine Study Tips for Mastering Distance Learning
Across the world, the coronavirus pandemic has temporarily closed classrooms and required students to learn their course material entirely from home. At the Wine Scholar Guild, many new enrollments have shifted to the online wine study option for the foreseeable future. In fact, many students now find themselves with more time on their hands as they are required to stay home and adopt “social distancing” to their daily routine.
It is important to note that at-home learning can require very different skills not applied in a classroom setting. Whether you are new to distance learning or eager for ideas on how to improve your studying practice, we’ve compiled 12 helpful study tips to help you make the most of your at-home wine education.
Top 10 reasons to study Spanish wine
Are you ready to dive into one of the world’s greatest wine-producing countries? If so, our next Spanish Wine Scholar Instructor-Led course is about to start, and we would love to have you join us! If you still aren’t sure, then take a look at these ten reasons why you should be studying Spanish wine.
Italian Wine Scholar ™ Unit 1 online | 10-week Instructor-Led Format
THE ITALIAN WINE SCHOLAR™ PROGRAM IS THE INDUSTRY'S MOST RESPECTED CERTIFICATION COURSE ON THE WINES OF ITALY
Master the wines of Northern Italy through 10 weeks of self-study fully supported by a comprehensive study manual, interactive e-learning modules for each region, and 9 live review webinars. The Italian Wine Scholar™ Unit 1 curriculum via online learning offers an interactive program that is put into a measurable, meaningful format designed for maximum retention of content and ease of use.
Students who pass the exam for Unit 1 and Unit 2 will earn the Italian Wine Scholar™ (IWS) post-nominal.
We provide true tech support, stellar instruction from acclaimed instructors, a flexible schedule of study designed for busy professionals and all the necessary tools to master the wines of northern Italy.
The Italian Wine Scholar course is composed of two separate units:
- Unit 1: The Wines of Northern Italy
- Unit 2: The Wines of Central & Southern Italy
10-week instructor-led format
Next session starts January 10, 2023
Price: $695
Note: Unit 1 & 2 can be taken in any order.
Program Preview:
The Italian Wine Scholar ™ Unit 1 online | 10-week Instructor-Led Format includes:
Plus:
- A schedule of study with learning objectives for each region
- The Italian Wine Scholar™ Unit 1 online exam*
- Access to repeat-after-me pronunciation exercise
- Online quizzes and learning games for self-evaluation
- Downloadable maps
- A list of recommended wines to sample on your own or in a tasting group organized by students enrolled in the online program
10-week instructor-led format
Next session starts January 10, 2023
Price: $695
Note: Unit 1 & 2 can be taken in any order.
Meet your instructors
Alan Tardi IWS
- Food & wine journalist with publications in The New York Times, Wine & Spirits Magazine, The Wine Spectator, Decanter, and Sommelier Journal
- Former resident of Italy
- Author of the James Beard award-winning book "Romancing the Vine: Life, Love and Transformation in the Vineyards of Barolo"
- First-ever US Ambassador of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco
Andrea Eby IWS, DipWSET, CSW
- WSG Italian Programs Director
- DipWSET holder with Distinction and awarded the ProWein Scholarship in recognition of her accomplishments
- Worked for more than a decade in the wine world; as a wine buyer, in retail sales, and as a drinks educator at one of Canada’s top wine stores.
- Member of the expert judging panels at the International Wine & Spirits Competition, International Wine Challenge and Vinitaly 5 Star Wines.
- Student of the Institute of Masters of Wine.
How does it work?
- You receive the full-color, 262-page Italian Wine Scholar study manual for Unit 1 for independent reading and study. Work through the material when you have time in your schedule.
- You are provided access to on-line study modules and review quizzes corresponding to the course content found in the manual. These are available to you 24/7!
- Attend 9 live webinars for 10 weeks via webinar accessible from computer or tablet. An opportunity to exchange freely with your instructor and fellow students. We always love to hear from you! Can’t make a webinar live? No problem. All are recorded for on demand replay in webinar or podcast formats…perfect on your way to work!
- Have a question after watching a recorded webinar? Contact your instructors via and Instructor Q & A forum or email her directly. The choice is yours.
- Track your progress through the course curriculum via our online tracking system.
- You have one year from your registration date to take your final exam for Unit 1. When you are ready, please contact one month in advance, WSG Office Manager Celine Camus at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to check on availability and schedule your online exam. The test consists of 100 multiple choice questions. There is no tasting component. All you need is a laptop equipped with microphone and webcam and an internet connection.
- We have structured the curriculum into a three-month program to keep you focused and disciplined in your study. But you have a full year to sit the exam…just in case life gets in the way.
10-week instructor-led format
Next session starts January 10, 2023
Price: $695
Note: Unit 1 & 2 can be taken in any order.
Why this format?
1. It is manageable.
The program is designed to keep you on track…but it is also flexible enough to enable you to catch up should your schedule get interrupted…or even to suspend it should you get derailed. It is designed to accommodate the needs of a busy professional.
2. You have real human support.
Ciro and Andrea are available for questions via chat box during webinars, via the Q&A forum and via direct email/phone. There is also a student forum should you wish to create a study group/tasting group in your area or just interact with your fellow students. You can be as interactive or as independent as you want to be.
3. You are part of a global student community.
Your classmates will hail from every segment of the wine industry from all over the globe and offer very different insights and points of view. The intellectual ferment adds to the depth of your learning.
4. Your classroom is mobile.
If you have a computer, cell phone or tablet, you have a classroom.
Schedule of study
|
Week 1 |
Welcome webinar (30 mins) · Meet your instructor and other students · General orientation · How to access online program and log-in to live webinars · How to use the discussion forum Self-study: Foundation Chapter & Piedmont Part 1 |
|
Week 2 |
No webinar |
|
Week 2 |
Live webinar (1 hr 15 mins) · Check-in on progress · Review of Piedmont Part 1 Self-study: Piedmont Part 2 |
|
Week 3 |
Live webinar (1 hr 15 mins) · Check-in on progress · Review of Piedmont Part 2 Self-study: Piedmont Part 3 & Valle d'Aosta |
|
Week 4 |
Live webinar (1 hr 15 mins) · Check-in on progress · Review of Piedmont Part 3 & Valle d'Aosta Self-study: Liguria & Emilia-Romagna |
|
Week 5 |
Live webinar (1 hr 15 mins) · Check-in on progress · Review of Liguria & Emilia-Romagna Self-study: Trentino & Alto Adige |
|
Week 6 |
Live webinar (1 hr 15 mins) · Check-in on progress · Review of Trentino & Alto Adige Self-study: Friuli Venezia Giulia & Lombardia |
|
Week 7 |
Live webinar (1 hr 15 mins) · Check-in on progress · Review of Friuli Venezia Giulia, Lombardia Self-study: Veneto Part 1 |
|
Week 8 |
Live webinar (1 hr 15 mins) · Check-in on progress · Review of Veneto Part 1 Self-study: Veneto Part 2 |
|
Week 9 |
Live webinar (1 hr 15 mins) · Check-in on progress · Review of Veneto Part 2 |
|
Week 10 |
Live webinar (1 hr 15 mins) · Cross-regional review & recap · Sample test questions · Exam protocols |
What's Included Instructors IWS STUDY TOOLS
Study Materials
WE OFFER ALL THE NECESSARY TOOLS & SUPPORT TO MASTER THE WINES OF NORTHERN ITALY:
#1 ITALIAN WINE SCHOLAR STUDY MANUAL:
The 260-page, full-color study manual 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.
A comprehensive cover of Northern Italy’s 9 distinct wine regions in the following manner:
- History, culture and traditions
- Location and climate with their effects on viticulture and wines
- Topography, geography and soils
- Grape varieties and their organoleptic profiles
- Viticulture and winemaking
- Wine industry trends and economics
- All DOCs and DOCGs with their regulations, wine styles and specificities
Regions covered: Valle d’Aosta, Lombardia, Piemonte, Trentino, Alto Adige, Veneto, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Liguria, Emilia-Romagna
Plus: A Foundation Unit covering Italian wine law, history, geography, topography, climate, viticulture and wine styles
Italian Wine Scholar™ study manual Unit 1 (Northern Italy) features:
#2 IWS Online Study Modules:
The IWS 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 Northern Italy are covered and dovetails nicely with the Italian Wine Scholar study manual Unit 1. Study materials are available 24/7. If you’ve got a laptop and an internet connection, you’ve got a classroom!
Italian 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 Italian Wine Programs Coordinator Andrea Eby
- Online Instructor-led Format: via the Q&A forum plus email and live chat with acclaimed wine educators
- In Classroom: via a local, certified instructor
Italian Wine Scholar Unit 1 Online Exam:
- The exam is composed of 100 multiple-choice questions and must be completed in 60 minutes. There is no tasting component.
- To become an Italian Wine Scholar and receive the IWS credential candidates need to pass the exams for Unit 1 and Unit 2 with a composite score of 75%
- The scores from both exams are added together and averaged for final assessment.
- Students with a composite score of 85-90.5 pass with HONORS. Candidates scoring 91-100 pass with HIGHEST HONORS.
- Online exam candidates must have a computer (tablet not compatible), a good internet connection, a webcam and a microphone with speakers for proctoring purposes.
- You have one year from your registration date to take your final exam for Unit 1. When you are ready, please contact, WSG Office Manager Celine Camus at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., one month in advance to check on availability and schedule your online exam.
About the program:
The Italian Wine Scholar™ education program is the most advanced, comprehensive, and up-to-date Italian wine course available. The syllabus takes a regional approach and discusses all italian 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 with the support of the Italian wine DOC/G consortia.
The Italian Trade Commission (ITA) endorsed the program in recognition of its exceptional level of depth, accuracy, detail, and academic rigor.
The Italian Wine Scholar study and certification program confers a post-nominal to wine professionals and enthusiasts who successfully pass the certification exams (Ex: John Smith, IWS). With a school network encompassing 30 countries on 5 continents, the IWS credential has true international recognition.
French Wine Scholar ™ Online | 10-Week Instructor-Led Format
THE FRENCH WINE SCHOLAR™ PROGRAM IS THE INDUSTRY'S MOST RESPECTED CERTIFICATION COURSE ON THE WINES OF FRANCE.
Earn the French Wine Scholar™ (FWS) post-nominal through 10 weeks of self-study fully supported by a comprehensive study manual, interactive e-learning modules for each region, and 10 live review webinars.
This format provides the convenience and flexibility of an online study program with interactive live “classroom” instruction delivered to a global student network via computer or tablet.
We provide true tech support, stellar instruction from world renowned instructors, a flexible schedule of study designed for busy professionals and all the necessary tools to master French wines.
10-week instructor-led format
Next session starts January 5, 2023
Price: $790
The French Wine Scholar ™ online | 10-week Instructor-Led 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
- 10 live review webinars with acclaimed wine educators (webinars are recorded for on-demand replay)
- A suggested schedule of study with learning objectives that provide detailed assessment criteria for mastery
- A list of recommended wines to sample on your own or in a tasting group
- An online exam sit (100 multiple choice questions)
Price: $790
We've just released a brand new version of the French Wine Scholar program (7th edition)! Register today and get your FWS certification in 10 weeks!
Next online instructor-led session starts January 5, 2023. Registration is now open!
Meet your instructors
Sharon McLean, CS, DipWSET, FWS, IWS
- Certified Sommelier through the International Sommelier Guild Senior
- Authorized instructor of Wine Scholar Guild and WSET courses on Vancouver Island
- WSET Diploma with the highest marks in Canada
- An accredited Bordeaux instructor
Lisa M. Airey, CWE, FWS
- Director of Education for the Wine Scholar Guild since 2009
- 24 years of experience in the wine industry
- Knighted by the French government for the FWS program’s significant contribution to the French wine industry.
- Creator of the French Wine Scholar™ program
How does it work?
- Register now and gain instant access to online study materials including an eBook version of the study manual.
- Your full-color, 330-page French Wine Scholar study manual will arrive by mail shortly afterwards for independent reading and study. Work through the material when you have time in your schedule.
- You are provided access to online study modules and review quizzes corresponding to the course content found in the manual. These are available to you 24/7!
- Attend 10 live webinars for 10 weeks via webinar accessible from computer or tablet (using Zoom). An opportunity to exchange freely with your instructor and fellow students. We always love to hear from you! Can’t make a webinar live? No problem, they are all recorded for on demand replay in webinar or podcast formats…perfect on your way to work!
- Have a question after watching a recorded webinar? Contact your instructors via and Instructor Q & A forum or email her directly. The choice is yours.
- Track your progress through the course curriculum via our online tracking system.
- You have one year from your registration date to take your final exam. The test consists of 100 multiple choice questions. There is no tasting component. All you need is a laptop equipped with microphone and webcam and an internet connection.
- We have structured the curriculum into a three-month program to keep you focused and disciplined in your study. But you have a full year to sit the exam…just in case life gets in the way.
10-week instructor-led format
Next session starts January 5, 2023
Price: $790
What's Included How it works Why this format? Study Materials
Why this format?
It is manageable
The program is designed to keep you on track…but it is also flexible enough to enable you to catch up should your schedule get interrupted…or even to suspend it should you get derailed. It is designed to accommodate the needs of a busy professional.
You have real human support
Sharon and Lisa are available for questions via chat box during webinars, via the Q&A forum and via direct email. There is also a student forum should you wish to create a study group/tasting group in your area or just interact with your fellow students. You can be as interactive or as independent as you want to be.
You are part of a global student community
Your classmates will hail from every segment of the wine industry from all over the globe and offer very different insights and points of view. The intellectual ferment adds to the depth of your learning.
Your classroom is mobile
If you have a computer, cell phone or tablet, you have a classroom.
Study Materials
We offer all the necessary tools & support to master the wines of France!
FWS Study Manual in print + e-book formats
The 330-page, full-color study manual (NEW 7th 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:
- 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
- A Fundamentals Unit covering the history of France, its political geography, physical geography, climate, soils, grapes, training systems, and viticultural & vinicultural practices…plus an important piece on how AOCs are counted and why different sources quote different figures.
- Special 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, Southwest, Languedoc, Roussillon, Rhône, Provence, Corsica
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
- Educational graphics, videos and pronunciation exercises 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
10-week instructor-led format
Next session starts January 5, 2023
Price: $790
About the Program
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.
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.
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:
Nilu Afsharon Oct 1, 2022"The overall Experience was great from administration answering questions to instructors explaining very clearly. I enjoyed it even though it was a lot of information and for me about 7 months of study time. "- Nilu Afsharon Oct 1, 2022"The overall Experience was great from administration answering questions to instructors explaining very clearly. I enjoyed it even though it was a lot of information and for me about 7 months of study time. "
- Gary Carteron Sep 4, 2022"Although I have already obtained a WSET Dioloma, I was keen to “deep dive” into French wine history and culture, plus fill in gaps that aren’t part of the WSET diploma syllabus. The course delivered on all these objectives and more. The materials are excellently laid out and the teaching was engaging and knowledgeable. What really stood out for me was the online teaching and revision materials, videos, flashcards and quizzes that made exam preparation straightforward. I would thoroughly recommend this course to anyone interested in understanding the breadth of French wine."
- Federica Cazzanigaon Jun 30, 2022"I took the FWS course after passing my WSET 3, in preparation for DipSet. Great content and great insights that gave me a strong understanding of the variety and complexity of France and its wine regions. "
- Martin Feldmanon Jun 29, 2022"I highly recommend the FWS course. As a long time wine lover, I have often been intimdated by French wine. Not any more! The FWS has provided a comprehesive understanding of French wine and terrior. Lisa and Sharon share their incredible knowledge in a fun classroom atmosphere. The manual is a phenomenal reference, and the online learning tools, especially the videos make it all work."
- Nathalie Brienon Jun 17, 2022"Great way to learn about French wines and geography even if you visited the country 20 times! Discover grape varieties you never heard about through videos, live sessions and a great book. I totally recommand this program with WSG."
- Sarah Lewison Apr 20, 2022"The program was excellent with a harmonious balance of historical context, growing environment, winemaking practices, and of course the wines themselves. In particular, I think the FWS has a focus on delivering materials that enhance the student's success in understanding and appreciation of all that the wines of France have to offer."
- David Kammon Apr 13, 2022"The French Wine Scholar program provides an in-depth exploration of every wine region in France. It is an invaluable aid in grasping the nuances of the different regions, their soil, geography and other environmental influences, going far being the grape and viticulture. It is very detailed, however, and not for the faint of heart, but more geared to the serious wine student. Clearly, even without taking the exam, one's knowledge of the French wine regions will be boosted by the course. "
- Szymon Milonason Feb 25, 2022"During studying you almost feel like being there, great motivation to visit french regions"
- Jeff Tyneron Feb 10, 2022"I am a 68 year old cardiothoracic surgeon in San Diego who has no connection with the wine industry. Nonetheless, I find the viniculture, viticulture, history, and personalities fascinating. I took and passed WSET 2 and 3 but knew what i really wanted to understand was more about the French wine history and culture. I have no idea if I passed but no matter, I learned a lot and an am grateful for the experience. The online tutors are terrific and the study materials very accessible and concise. Thanks for a well designed and crafted learning experience. J Tyner"
- Luiz Batistelloon Feb 9, 2022"The program was clear, very didactic and with a good amount of information concerning to the local culture, French expressions, names, sub-areas less explored, making the exam a little bit challenging. I live in France and travel often to the main regions and I have learned also may new things even for Champagne where I spend most of time. I was very satisfied of taking this program. My only suggestion would be maybe to have more short videos in the region's sessions, they could help making a faster revision. In the quiz would be nice too, to have more questions. "
- Libby Lewison Feb 6, 2022"The French Wine Scholar program is formidable and detailed. However, the large variety of study materials, live sessions, and ability to go back to review recordings was very helpful as I prepared for my exam. I enjoyed the program while being challenged. It is the first of what I hope to be many certifications I will pursue with the Wine Scholar Guild."
- on Feb 6, 2022"The French Wine Scholar program is a "master" program, in the fullest and most-noble sense of the word - not only do you learn about French winemaking, the French organizational and regulatory system, the grapes, the key historical figures, geology, world-economic-political-sociological history - but you get to experience some of the very finest mentor-instructors, as well as a great networking experience with your classmates! Very enjoyable experience!"
- John Ferrison Jan 20, 2022"I found the program very enjoyable and enlightening. With my curiosity peaked, I have experienced many wines that i never would have tried. And there are many more I am looking forward to tasting! This course opened my eyes as to just how wonderful the world of French wine really is. Thank you."
- Sunny Gandaraon Dec 14, 2021"I found the French Wine Scholar program to be incredibly very in-depth and comprehensive and challenged me in a positive way that inspired me want to continue studying the individual regions further. Lisa and and Sharon were fantastic instructors, very thorough and quick to respond to any inquiries from students. A very well designed program I highly recommend anyone who is interested in the wine region of France to take!"
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.
The French Wine Scholar ™ online | Independent Study 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
- A suggested schedule of study* with learning objectives that provide detailed assessment criteria for mastery
- A list of recommended wines to sample on your own or in a tasting group
- An online exam sit (100 multipe choice questions).
Price: $595
The FWS program is available in a 10-week instructor-led online format with professional instructor support from with acclaimed wine educators Sharon Mclean, DipWSET, FWS and WSG Education Director Lisa M. Airey.
Student Testimonials:
- Serge Perrin Merinoson Sep 15, 2022"Deep dive in french wines. Very complementary to other reputed wines curriculums (e.g. WSET3). As a french citizen, I have learnt many things that the great majority of my compatriots (including wine lovers) have no clues about. "
- Jocelyn NICOLASon Aug 22, 2022"An exciting learning experience, with a global vision of french wines (geology, history, geography, regulations, wine industry, winemaking, wine characteristics etc...) ! Jocelyn NICOLAS, FWS"
- Rosana Pasinion Aug 4, 2022"WSG has definetelly the best online materials for the student to study. It's clear, it's simple and shows the details of terroirs, history, wines in a very easy and lovey way. The classes are great and pleasant. I'll definetelly go on studying with WSG."
- Celia Coriglianoon Aug 3, 2022"Very satisfied. Concepts solidificated. Very good ilustration that helps the information capture."
- Che Chun Alex Tsuion Jul 28, 2022"A top-notch qualification enabling everybody to take a deep dive into French Wines! The materials are incredibly well written and the online studying materials are very helpful as well. I especially like the recently-published list of recommended producers and appreciate that there are hundreds of high-quality wine labels presented as examples throughout the online learning module."
- Edward Halibozekon Jul 26, 2022"Great program with excellent course material. Perhaps too much information for a short term course. "
- Ronbenitezon Jul 26, 2022"Was fun, look forward to the next one"
- Adam Saunon Jul 13, 2022"I would highly recommend this course to any professional or enthusiast who has an interest in French wine. The course goes into great detail giving you a deep understanding of the history, climate, viticulture, winemaking, key wine styles and AOCs of all the French wine regions. It really immerses you in the culture of France and it will make you want to travel to each and every one of the regions!"
- I Putu Rio Chandrabawa Adi Wigunaon Jun 23, 2022"I would definitely recommend everyone to take WSG courses to expand their knowledge of wine...looking to further dig down the world of wine, you can't be wrong with entrusting that journey with WSG. The materials are well-designed by experts in such a way that can be easily digested despite the sheer amount of depth."
- Mark Snowon Jun 1, 2022"The French Wine Scholar course is an exercise in excellence. The materials are rigorously crafted by people who obviously love the wines of the region, and the information within is invaluable to anyone seeking advanced knowledge of this most famous of winemaking countries. The textbook will continue to be a resource for me for years to come. "
- Tim Henshawon May 26, 2022"A very interesting and thoroughly enjoyable course, that combines Classroom, Online and private study opportunities, with the added bonus of being able to taste the wines from the various regions, which helps to cement the idea of Terroir into the style and profile of the regions."
- Sabina Poirieron May 12, 2022"Overall, the program is excellent. It has given me a more complete view of the wines of France than I've had in the past. Specifically, I learned about regions that I've not really been exposed to much, and it has given me a better understanding of context. It has also given me a much easier way to think of Bourgogne, especially, the Côte d'Or. I've long had trouble remembering what was what in the Côte d'Or (despite working with some iconic wineries), and I feel much more confident. This goes for all regions really - the course really helps to understand the regions, terroirs, viti, vini, and history, and how it all fits together."
- Ylva Lindskogon Apr 28, 2022"Really enjoyed the programme - thank you!"
- Milos Jerabekon Apr 28, 2022"I love your take :)"
- Ying Ying Chenon Apr 28, 2022"As a wine amteur, I really enjoyed the FWS journey, and have learnt so much from it. I have just finished WSET L3 and finding that I wanted to learn more. FWS expanded my understanding on French wine region, history and deepen my knowledge of how French classifying system works and more pleasure in appreciating wine. Will keep going with WSG study and look forward to the wine trips in the future!"
Study Materials
We offer all the necessary tools & support to master the wines of France!
FWS Study Manual in print + e-book formats
The 330-page, full-color study manual (NEW 7th 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:
- 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
- A Fundamentals Unit covering the history of France, its political geography, physical geography, climate, soils, grapes, training systems, and viticultural & vinicultural practices…plus an important piece on how AOCs are counted and why different sources quote different figures.
- Special 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, Southwest, Languedoc, Roussillon, Rhône, Provence, Corsica
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
- Educational graphics, videos and pronunciation exercises 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
Professional Instructor Support
- Online Independent Study: via the Q&A forum answered by French Programs Director
- Online Instructor-led Format: via the Q&A forum plus email and live chat with acclaimed wine educators
- In Classroom: via a local, certified instructor
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). With a school network encompassing 30 countries on 5 continents, the FWS credential has true international recognition.
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.
Industry Testimonials
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"Indispensable for any wine trade professional who works with French wine. Bravo!”
Martin Sinkoff"My most sincere appreciation goes to the WSG team for their great work to make French wines so much fun…
Xavier Barlier- 1
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Published in French Wine Scholar
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 for class prep & review
- 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, the wine selection will vary by market, the class length and class structure (weekly, biweekly, weekends etc.) will vary from location to location, but the content will be the same no matter where you take the class. For many, the classroom experience helps to hammer home the theory; a tutored tasting component brings each region to life. Many students find the set “schedule” helpful in keeping on top of their studies.
Who teaches for the Wine Scholar Guild?
Highly regarded industry professionals and educators including:
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| Jay Youmans MW, FWS | Mark Pygott MW, FWS | Sheral Schowe, M.Ed., FWS |
David Glancy MS, CWE, FWS
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Sharon Mclean, DipWSET, FWS |
Jimmy Smith, DipWSET, FWS, IWS, SWS | Peter Neptune MS | Julien Boulard MW, FWS |
Industry Testimonials
-
"Indispensable for any wine trade professional who works with French wine. Bravo!”
Martin Sinkoff"My most sincere appreciation goes to the WSG team for their great work to make French wines so much fun…
Xavier Barlier
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
- 6
Published in French Wine Scholar
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Ready for your next challenge? Join us for an upcoming instructor-led online session!
- 🇫🇷 Bourgogne Master-Level starts on October 4
- 🇮🇹 Italian Wine Scholar Prep starts on October 4
- 🇪🇸 Spanish Wine Scholar starts on October 18
- 🇮🇹 Italian Wine Scholar Unit 2 starts on November 1
- 🇫🇷 Bourgogne Master-Level Intensive in Beaune from November 6-11
- 🇪🇸 CSWS® starts on October 10 or October 17
- 🇫🇷 French Wine Scholar starts on January 5
- 🇮🇹 Italian Wine Scholar Unit 1 starts on January 10