Wine Tasting: Eligibility, Age Limit, Career, Courses, Colleges, Salary

Becoming a Wine Taster does not require a formal degree. Nonetheless, several certificate programmes aid in your comprehension of scientific concepts and wine-tasting methods. Applicants can choose from a variety of hotel management degrees and certifications to focus on the wine-tasting industry. Read further to know more about the job options in wine tasting, providing information on the necessary training, educational pathways, and growing prospects in this rapidly developing field.

Beyond the boundaries of decadence, the world of wine tasting presents an intriguing career path for individuals with a sophisticated palate and an interest in Oenology. The practice of wine tasting has developed into a well-respected industry, with participants being specialists in sensory analysis, vineyard management, and the complex science of winemaking in addition to being lovers of excellent wines.

Becoming a Wine Taster does not require a formal degree. Nonetheless, several certificate programmes aid in your comprehension of scientific concepts and wine-tasting methods. Applicants can choose from a variety of hotel management degrees and certifications to focus on the wine-tasting industry. Being a sommelier or wine-tasting representative offers a wide range of employment options and high compensation. This article examines the several job options in wine tasting, providing information on the necessary training, educational pathways, and growing prospects in this rapidly developing field.

Wine tasting: What Is It?

Wine tasting is the process of analysing and assessing wine with the senses. Wine tasting does not belong in the arts or scientific streams. Experts in wine tasting search for characteristics that set wine apart, such as its color, shade, aroma, acidity, sweetness, etc. Sommeliering is a considerably more involved profession than just tasting wine. Wine tasters are taught to use their senses to distinguish minute variations in the flavors and textures of wine, and they are well-versed in the proper methodology for wine tasting.

Eligibility for Wine Tasting Courses

Candidates can check the qualifications for wine-tasting courses in the country below:

• Candidates must have passed Class 12^th with at least 45 per cent marks
• Candidates must be of legal drinking age as defined by the state or government, as this vocation involves some bartending.
• An applicant who has a degree in hotel management and wants to get a wine-tasting certificate will benefit more.

Wine Tasting Proficiency Required

• To distinguish between the taste and smell of the wine samples, wine tasters must have both active taste and smell buds. He/she should be able to recognise the types of scents that the wine samples in question release by using his keen sense of smell.
• A wine taster needs to have a strong memory because they will be using it to distinguish between various flavours and scents.
• Professionals who taste wine must be proficient communicators both orally and in writing since they will be required to explain the wine to a group of people who may not be very knowledgeable about the industry.

Wine Tasting: Courses

Numerous Certificate and Diploma programmes in wine tasting are offered in India. These courses might last anywhere from two weeks to a year, or as short as six months for a Diploma in Wine Studies degree. Students in India's foundation certificate programme learn about basic wine types, food and wine pairing, wine storage, and wine serving. When tasting wine, students are taught to evaluate its provenance through their senses.

As part of the foundational course, students are introduced to tasting 10–12 wines from around the world through the Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET) programme (see listing of Wine Academies). The six-hour Level 1 course is delivered over one or two days. Level 2 takes place over three to five days. Students are taught to evaluate wine at several levels based on its clarity, intensity, colour, flavour, acidity, tannin content, age, and more. The Level 1, 2, and 3 WSET wine courses are presently available in Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore by Tulleeho, an authorised WSET programme provider in India. IWBS also does, but only at levels 1 and 2. Fewer students specialise in wine tasting and have a background in hotel administration.

France has the best educational system when it comes to wine tasting or pursuing a career in the same. It is strongly advised to attend Le Cordon Bleu in Paris and University du Vin de Suze la Rousse in the Rhone Valley. Wine tasting classes are also offered by the Canadian Association of Professional Sommeliers in Toronto and the Culinary Institute of America. Programme providers who have been approved by WSET, an educational organisation, provide professional courses in wine studies all around the world.

Top Wine Tasting Colleges in India

In India, wine tasting courses are currently not highly respected job paths. India nevertheless boasts a large number of wine tasting establishments. A list of some of India's top wine tasting institutions is provided below.

Best Wine Tasting Institutes in India

Candidates can check the list of best wine tasting institutes in the country below:

Institute	Location
Indian Wine Academy	Delhi
Institute for Wine and Beverage Studies (IWBS)	Delhi
Tulleeho Wine Academy	Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi
Wine Academy of India (WAI)	Chennai
Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE)	Manipal

Wine Tasting Course Fees

Since instructors in India must purchase licences for each training day, wine courses cannot be taught with the same freedom as other specialty courses. A licence for a day has an expiration duration of six hours and costs about INR 5,500. A wine tasting course typically costs an institution between INR 50,000 and INR 70,000 per month. Certain wine tasting establishments may additionally indicate costs on a daily basis. However, compared to traditional classroom courses, the cost of online wine tasting classes can be significantly lower.

Wine Tasting Career Prospects and Salary Structure

A sommelier with experience might work as a wine consultant for spirits companies, F&B businesses and wine importers. There are more job choices available worldwide, including those in wine bars, theme parks, cruise ships, in-flight amenities, and resorts. Every day, the wine industry changes. It is producing fresh wine labels that are sold all over the world. It also involves honouring all of the recognisable wine labels that continue to have a special place in the hearts of wine enthusiasts.

Sommeliers with certification and wine tasters have a special role in uniting the community and fostering its global expansion. A trained sommelier in India might begin earning between INR 10-20,000 and, after a few years of expertise, reach INR 50,000. Sommeliers with international experience can make at least INR 1 lakh in India. Generally speaking, salaries are greater abroad.

Career Opportunities:

(a) Sommelier: Working in restaurants, hotels, or exclusive clubs, sommeliers curate wine lists, recommend pairings, and provide guests with a memorable wine experience.

(b) Wine Educator: Sharing knowledge and passion for wine by conducting tastings, seminars, or even teaching in academic settings.

(c) Wine Critic or Journalist: Evaluating and writing about wines for publications, websites, or as an independent critic.

(d) Wine Consultant: Advising wineries on blending, production techniques, and marketing strategies.

Industry Trends and Global Market:

The wine industry is continually evolving, with an increasing demand for skilled professionals. Emerging wine regions, sustainability practices, and the rise of boutique wineries contribute to a dynamic and globalized market, offering diverse opportunities for those entering the field.

A career in wine tasting is not just about sipping and savoring; it's an intricate journey into the world of flavors, aromas, and the cultural richness that surrounds wine. As the industry continues to expand, individuals with a keen interest in the art and science of wine tasting can uncork a fulfilling career filled with exploration, education, and the joy of sharing their passion with others.