Ryan Wilson
sales rep / wine consultant
Mitchell Wine Group
As a sales rep/wine consultant for a local distributor,
I’m much more confident and comfortable showing, discussing, and selling wine after having studied through the WSA.
I was already in the wine trade before I took the course, but found I still had much to learn. I had recently completed the intermediate course through the International Sommeliers Guild as well as a brief online course, so I feel very comfortable endorsing the WSA/WSET. An especially important and distinctive feature of the program are the organized, thoughtfully prepared group tasting exercises, which is the main downfall of the simpler online courses that lack that aspect.
The merits and reputation of the WSET are considerable, but I feel compelled to stress the importance of qualified, enthusiastic and thoughtful instructors.
Adam and Mimi are excellent at conveying their knowledge and excitement about all things oenological.
They bring a welcome lightheartedness and humor to the classroom, yet adhere to the standards of quality that the WSET is known for. They also organize field excursions to local wineries, which is a great way to learn about the winemaking process without having to wear out your reading glasses.
At the onset of the course, there were varying levels of wine knowledge among the students, but by the end everyone seemed to be on essentially the same page. Any feelings of nervousness or intimidation in the beginning quickly vanished due to the warm, collegial atmosphere of the class, and we all encouraged each other to reach higher.
I’m very happy to have taken the WSET Advanced Certificate, and I would do it again in a second.
I plan on being the first to enroll for the Diploma courses the minute they’re offered through the Wine & Spirit Archive.
Salute,
Ryan Wilson