With a focus on fortified wines, this session will explore the art, science, and business of wine. This includes emphasis on viticulture & winemaking process, as well as growing environment, varietal options, winemaking decisions, even industry associations and business decisions – all of which lead to style, level of quality, and pricing. In addition, students will learn to accurately taste and professionally evaluate these styles.
Fall Cohort: November 3 - December 7, 2025.
Registration deadline: October 20, 2025.
Diploma Days: Nov 9/10
Winter Cohort: January 12 - February 15, 2026.
Registration deadline: January 1, 2026.
Diploma Days: Feb 8/9
Spring Cohort: April 13 - May 17, 2026.
Registration deadline: April 1, 2026.
The Exam:
90-minute open-response theory paper.
Blind tasting of 3 fortified wines
Exams available every January and June. Upcoming exams: January 22, 2025, and June 11, 2025.
With a focus on fortified wines, this session will explore the art, science, and business of wine. This includes emphasis on viticulture & winemaking process, as well as growing environment, varietal options, winemaking decisions, even industry associations and business decisions – all of which lead to style, level of quality, and pricing. In addition, students will learn to accurately taste and professionally evaluate these styles.
Fall Cohort: November 3 - December 7, 2025.
Registration deadline: October 20, 2025.
Diploma Days: Nov 9/10
Winter Cohort: January 12 - February 15, 2026.
Registration deadline: January 1, 2026.
Diploma Days: Feb 8/9
Spring Cohort: April 13 - May 17, 2026.
Registration deadline: April 1, 2026.
The Exam:
90-minute open-response theory paper.
Blind tasting of 3 fortified wines
Exams available every January and June. Upcoming exams: January 22, 2025, and June 11, 2025.
