The International Sommelier Guild, in cooperation with University of Houston Continuing Education, offers Wine Fundamentals Certificate and Sommelier Diploma Program courses.

For additional information, contact UH Continuing Education at 713.743.1060.

Courses Offered	Starting
WFCL1/2	February 4, 2008, 4–11 p.m.
WFCL1/2	June 2, 2008, 4–11 p.m.
WFCL1/2	September 22, 2008, 4–11 p.m.
SDP	September 22, 2008, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
Course Legend WFCL1/2—ISG Wine Fundamentals Certificate Level 1 & 2 SDP—Sommelier Diploma Program

Course Descriptions

ISG Wine Fundamentals Certificate Level 1

An introductory course designed for the novice wine enthusiast. Whether pursuing a career in hospitality or enhancing your enjoyment of wines; the ISG Wine Fundamentals Certificate Level 1 curriculum provides an introduction to the basic aspects of sensory evaluation that are frequently overlooked when drinking wine. You will study the different components of wine appearance, aroma, and flavor. You will also learn the basics in wine terminology, which should assist you in describing the wines that you taste. This course offers a basic understanding of the major grapes used for making wine and their discerning characteristics. You will taste wines from around the world but above all else have fun! You will also be introduced to fortified and sparkling wines.

Upon completion of this course you will have learned some basic wine terminology, understand label information, rudimentary service techniques as well as some food and wine pairing theories. The goal is for you to gain an appreciation for all types of wines and feel comfortable and confident when selecting and buying wine.

The course runs three hours per week for eight weeks and in some markets may only be offered concurrently once a week for a total of six hours per week for a total of four weeks. The ISG Wine Fundamentals Certificate Level 1 is mandatory for entrance into the ISG Wine Fundamentals Certificate Level 2.

ISG Wine Fundamentals Certificate Level 2

A fifteen week course designed to build on your learning from the ISG Wine Fundamentals Certificate Level 1. You will be exposed to all elements involved in the wine business including viticulture, vinification, and regional laws. You will begin to develop your blind tasting skills by studying old and new world wine regions as well as sparkling and fortified wines. In addition, you will build on your service skills, food and wine pairing techniques, and proper storage practices. The goal of this course is to advance your understanding of wine and wine making in order to prepare you for the Sommelier Diploma.

The course runs three hours per week for 15 weeks and in some markets may be offered concurrently once a week for a total of six hours per week for a total of eight weeks.

ISG Sommelier Diploma Program

The program is an intensive six-month course held once a week over a full day. The International Sommelier Guild is the only professional body that accredits Sommeliers by direct instruction.

Many universities and colleges offer courses in wine tastings, wine appreciation, viticulture, and oenology. What makes the International Sommelier Guild different? To begin with, we believe that only through direct instruction can you learn the subtle intricacies of the art of wine. Wine can never be truly learned from simple seminars or books. A professional that can decipher and translate the overwhelming volume of information must guide students. With our personalized approach to learning, we are not only able to tell you, but also to show you how to evaluate a wine, critique it, decant it, serve, and store it. We take it even further as industry experts lead all of our lectures. The curriculum also covers everything from viticulture, vinification, tasting techniques, cellaring, investment strategy, menu design, and regional analysis of wines, spirits, and ales. To ensure that your learning experience is second to none, we hold an annual conference to guarantee that each and every instructor has the latest information, research and development, new theories on food and wine pairing, and current trends in the market place. As a graduate, you will enter the industry informed and sought after.

We don't stop there either. Unlike any other Sommelier accreditation body in the world, we provide you with in-depth teachings of all the world's wine regions and their components as opposed to a one-dimensional national approach. Upon successful completion of this intensive program, we guarantee that you will be on the forefront of the wine industry.

This degree is aimed at being the defining benchmark for wine knowledge within the hospitality industry. We strive to support the professional development of our members including a referral program for career opportunities and sponsorship of exclusive member tastings and events. Upon successful completion of the Sommelier Diploma Program, you will graduate with a diploma that designates you as a leader in wine industry as well as having professional mobility.