German Wine Scholar

The German Wine Scholar® education program is the most comprehensive certification course dedicated entirely to the wines of Germany. The syllabus takes a regional approach and explores all thirteen German wine regions, their appellations and the factors that shape their identities: climate, geology, topography, history and culture. Along the way you will gain a clear understanding of German wine law and the classification and labelling systems that so many wine lovers find puzzling. The German Wine Scholar study and certification program confers a post-nominal to wine professionals and enthusiasts who successfully pass the certification exam (Ex: John Smith, GWS). With a network of program providers around the world, the GWS credential is internationally recognised. Set yourself apart from your peers. Specialise in the wines of Germany!

The program includes all the necessary tools & support to Master the wines of Germany:

• Our sessions will include 21 hours of classroom instruction with tutored tasting taught by approved instructors
• The official 313-page German Wine Scholar study guide, in print and as an interactive e-book 
• 1-year access to the Wine Scholar Guild online classroom, with interactive learning modules
• Registration for the German Wine Scholar exam 
• To bring each region to life, you will taste more than 45 different wines over the course of the program.

Who is this program for?

This study program is designed for all committed students of wine, including:

• Hospitality and wine industry professionals who want to deepen their expertise
• Sommeliers looking for a competitive edge
• Passionate wine enthusiasts and collectors
• Travellers and lifelong learners who want to understand German wine styles and regions in depth.
• The program is also an excellent addition for students who have completed WSET Level 3 or are working towards the WSET Diploma.

Why Study German Wine?

Germany may be small in production compared to other major wine countries, but its influence is far greater than its size. It is the spiritual home of Riesling, a grape that can express its vineyard like few others, in styles ranging from bone dry to lusciously sweet. It is also one of the world’s most important producers of Pinot Noir (Spätburgunder), and increasingly a source of exciting wines from grapes such as Silvaner, Pinot Blanc and Lemberger. From the dizzyingly steep slate slopes of the Mosel to the warmer, broader landscapes of the Pfalz and Baden, Germany offers a remarkable range of terroirs in a cool climate. By studying German wine, you gain a deeper appreciation for how site, climate and grape interact, insight that will sharpen your understanding of wine in general.