Many wine connoisseurs have the aspiration of becoming Master Sommeliers. But getting this esteemed distinction is not a simple task. The Master Sommelier Exam is one of the most tough and demanding exams in the entire world. This article will discuss the Master Sommelier Exam’s difficulty level and present some relevant issues.
The Master Sommelier Exam is a thorough examination that rates applicants’ expertise in wine, spirits, drinks, and service. Theory, practical, and taste are the three sections of the exam. The applicants’ knowledge of viticulture, winemaking, wine regions, grape varietals, and other beverage categories is tested in the theoretical part. The practical portion of the exam evaluates the candidates’ proficiency in decanting, serving, and pairing wine. The tasting portion, where applicants must name the grape variety, place of origin, and vintage of six blind wines, is arguably the most difficult.
Due to its low success rate, the Master Sommelier Exam is well known. Only 269 people have passed the test out of the thousands of applicants who have attempted it since it began in 1969. There will only be 269 Master Sommeliers in the world as of 2021. The exam’s challenging difficulty level and the strict standards established by the Court of Master Sommeliers are to blame for the low pass percentage. The exam is made to thoroughly assess each candidate’s knowledge, skills, and abilities.
The wine sector is not the only one that uses the term “sommelier.” Beer, sake, and whiskey are now included in the title along with other libations. Numerous organizations provide training programs and certifications in the Whiskey Sommelier program, which is becoming more well-known and respected. Those who have proven their proficiency in whiskey, including its history, production, and taste, are given the title of “Whiskey Sommelier.”
A sommelier is a character in the well-known film John Wick. Actor Peter Serafinowicz portrays a wine connoisseur who advises John Wick on the best wine to pair with his supper as the sommelier in the movie John Wick. The function of a sommelier is crucial in the hospitality sector, despite the fact that the sommelier in John Wick is a fictional character. A sommelier’s job is to mix food and wine to provide diners an unforgettable dining experience.
Numerous organizations provide courses and certifications in the field of sommeliership if you want to pursue the career. Programs for certification are available from the Court of Master Sommeliers at the introductory, certified, advanced, and master levels. Another company that provides training and certifications in wine and spirits is the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET). Level 4 of the WSET training, which are comparable to the Master Sommelier qualification, is offered.
In conclusion, with a low success rate, the Master Sommelier Exam is unquestionably one of the most difficult exams in the world. However, having the title of Master Sommelier has several advantages and is highly respected in the wine industry. The role of a sommelier encompasses not only wine but also other alcoholic beverages like whiskey. No matter the industry, a sommelier’s job is essential to giving diners a special dining experience. Anyone who wants to become a sommelier has access to the subject because to the numerous institutions that offer certification programs and training in it.
It is not stated in the article “Master Sommelier Exam: A Tough Nut to Crack” how much sommeliers specifically earn in the UK. Although this might vary depending on criteria including experience, region, and the type of restaurant, the typical salary for a sommelier in the UK is reportedly between £24,000 and £30,000 per year, according to the UK website PayScale.