College Certificate in Sommelier

Algonquin College

The perfect pairing of theory and industry experience.

The one-year Sommelier Ontario College Certificate program gives you the skills and knowledge to enter or advance a career in the wine profession.

Wine and beverage expertise has become an essential tool in the hospitality industry, creating a high demand for qualified professionals. In our sommelier lab, you acquire the specialized skills and extensive knowledge to meet this demand.

Gain knowledge of the viticulture and viniculture of primary grape growing areas around the world. Through tastings of a variety of wines, expand your ability to recognize distinctive aromas and flavours associated with various wine regions. Learn food and wine pairing skills, cellaring tips, marketing techniques, grape varieties, wine list development and the proper service of wine, beer and whiskeys.

Take your skills into the real world with a 40-hour field placement at a restaurant, wine shop, winery, wine retail outlet or wine show. This industry experience helps you build valuable connections and become career-ready. These connections have led some of our graduates to launch successful freelance writing or teaching-careers.

Upon graduation, you receive certification from the Wine and Spirit Education Trust for Restaurant Service, Level 2 Award in Wine and Spirits, and Level 2 Award in Spirits. Graduates also receive the prestigious Algonquin College Sommelier Pin as a symbol of achievement.

Sommelier graduates may find employment at:

• restaurants
• retail wine outlets
• wine shows
• winery tasting bars, and
• The Liquor Control Board of Ontario

Students must be at least 19 years of age.

SUCCESS FACTORS

This program is well-suited for students who:

• Appreciate wine as a beverage, Enjoy the hospitality industry, Are passionate about travelling, Are intrigued by the history of beverages, Are customer-service oriented, Have prior industry-related experience.