Level 1 - An Introduction to Wine & Wine Service

This is an entry-level program ideal for frontline restaurant staff involved in the service of wine or someone about to enter their first job in the hospitality industry. Students will gain a sound knowledge of the world of wine including the principle grape varieties used in wine production, major styles of wine, influencing factors and how they relate to wine in the bottle.

Correct procedures for wine service and storage will also be studies as well as the fundamentals of food and wine matching. As part of this program, students will learn basic wine tasting techniques. Upon successful completion, The Art Institute of Vancouver will award a certificate of competence. Students will also gain the Foundation Certificate in Wines issued by the internationally recognized Wine & Spirit Education Trust.

Prerequisites: None
Course Length: 5 weeks
Hours: 15

Level 2 - Intermediate Wine, Spirits, & Alcoholic Beverage Studies

This program is designed to give a more in-depth view of the wines and spirits world. It is ideal for hospitality staff such as bar persons and more specialized drinks servers who already have a basic knowledge of alcoholic beverages and their service. Students will gain a good understanding of international wine styles and their production methods, as well as correct service and storage procedures. A professional and structured approach to wine tasting will be learned and the program will fully explore the principles of food and wine combination.

Upon successful completion, The Art Institute of Vancouver will award a certificate of competence. Students will also gain the Intermediate Certificate in Wines, Spirits & other Alcoholic Beverages issued by the internationally recognized Wine & Spirit Education Trust.

Prerequisites: Level 1 (or relevant industry experience)
Course Length: 11 weeks
Hours: 33

Level 3 - Advanced Wines & Spirits (I)
Level 4 - Advanced Wines & Spirits (II)

These two programs may be studied separately but are designed to be complementary, each covering different areas of the wines and spirits world. They both deliver a high level of wines and spirits knowledge that will ultimately equip the learner with the skills and confidence to select and purchase such beverages for an establishment's list or bar.

Individual wine and spirit producing regions will be examined. Key wine-styles will be tasted and discussed with particular reference to today's marketplace and accompanying cuisine. Full cellar management and service procedures are learned here together with a more advanced level of wine tasting technique. These programs would ideally suit a senior person in the hospitality industry such as a bar manager, sommelier or establishment owner.

Upon successful completion, The Art Institute of Vancouver will award a certificate of competence for each Level III and Level IV. In addition, students who successfully complete both Levels will be awarded the Advanced Certificate in Wines & Spirits by the Wine & Spirit Education Trust.

Level 3
Prerequisites: Level 1 & 2 (or relevant industry experience)
Course Length: 11 weeks
Hours: 33

Level 4
Prerequisites: Level 1 & 2 (or relevant industry experience)
Course Length: 11 weeks
Hours: 33