Achieving the Master of Wine credential is, for most students, approximately a five-year endeavor. The basic steps include:
Application to the Study Program and attendance at the one-week Study Program for a minimum of two years with self-study and mentoring in the interim sitting the MW exam until passing both the Theory and Tasting parts, and writing an original research dissertation.
Application to the program
Highly qualified individuals may request applications from the Institute by contacting Peter Czimadia-Honig, Peter@mastersofwine.org. The application period generally runs from July to mid-September each year. The application involves a summary of the applicant’s previous wine education, work in the wine trade and wine-related travel; an essay on an assigned topic; and completion of a wine-tasting assignment.
The North American Seminars
In North America, the Residential Seminar takes place each year in Napa Valley for one week in early February. Students gain an orientation to the exam, attend lectures, seminars and tastings conducted by key experts, and take an exit exam in Theory and Tasting to gauge their knowledge.
Advanced students also participate in workshops and focus sessions designed to improve their examination preparedness. Students must continue attending the residential seminars annually until they pass the Theory and Practical parts of the exam.
Students already in the program have the opportunity to attend course days, usually held in Napa and New York. Eligible students will be updated with information on course days when programs are scheduled.
Other residential seminars
Space permitting, North American applicants can register for a residential seminar in Australia or in Europe rather than in North America. The Australian course is held in Melbourne. The European seminars are in Rust, Austria for first year students, and Bordeaux, France for those in the second or subsequent years.
For further information on the general structure of the program, fees, and how to apply, please click here.
