Intermediate Wine Certificate (IWC)
Tuition

Online Tuition: $550.00
Classroom Tuition: $850.00
Tuition includes all examinations.

Bundle pricing is available for select course combinations. To view current bundle options and online enrollment formats, please visit our Online Learning page.

Entry Point Into ISG’s Professional Wine Education System
Program Overview

The Intermediate Wine Certificate (IWC) is the entry point into ISG’s professional wine education system. It is designed for individuals entering the wine and hospitality field, career changers seeking a structured foundation, and serious wine learners pursuing disciplined professional education.

The IWC provides a rigorous introduction to wine, food, service, and hospitality fundamentals, forming the academic base for further professional certification.

Recorded Lectures · Self-Paced Access
Online Learning Format and Academic Access

ISG online education is delivered through recorded lectures taught by qualified professional sommeliers. These are full instructional lectures, not automated content, avatar-based presentations, or text-only learning materials.

Enrolled students receive access to recorded lectures and official ISG textbooks, allowing the material to be reviewed throughout the course. Online IWC students have course access without fixed time restrictions, giving them the flexibility to progress at their own pace.

Quizzes and examinations may be repeated as part of the learning process, with no additional re-examination fees for the online course. This model is designed to support mastery, academic confidence, and successful course completion, giving students the time and access required to meet professional standards.

Varietal-Based Curriculum
What You Learn

The IWC is a comprehensive foundational program built on a varietal-based curriculum, providing a structured and methodical approach to wine education.

Students develop:

  • A foundational understanding of major grape varieties used in the global wine industry
  • A structured varietal framework for understanding wine styles and regional expression
  • A clear and methodical approach to professional wine evaluation
  • Practical training in professional sensory analysis
  • An introduction to still wines, with fortified and sparkling wines integrated into the core curriculum
  • Professional wine service fundamentals, including service standards and best practices
  • Proficiency in wine terminology, label interpretation, introductory appellation concepts, and food and wine pairing principles
  • The confidence to evaluate, select, and purchase wines across styles and regions
Official ISG Materials
Learning Materials and Academic Standards

All learning materials are developed and issued by the ISG Board of Education and are aligned directly with ISG examinations and assessments.

To support academic consistency, fairness, and assessment integrity, ISG strongly recommends that candidates rely on official ISG learning materials rather than external or third-party resources.

7 Sessions · 24 Clock Hours
Course Structure and Requirements

The IWC consists of 7 instructional sessions totaling 24 clock hours. A minimum of three additional one-hour study sessions per instructional session is recommended.

Each session includes:

  • Lecture
  • Guided tasting
  • Review
  • Quiz for material reinforcement
Structured Progression of Topics
Syllabus

View Syllabus

The syllabus outlines the structured progression of topics and learning objectives that define the IWC curriculum.

Before Enrollment
Additional Information

All required learning materials are included as part of the program.

Please note that examinations may be academically demanding. Candidates are encouraged to review ISG academic and examination policies.

Detailed Breakdown Available
Examinations

For more information and a detailed examination breakdown, please contact:
info@internationalsommelier.com

Continue Your Pathway
Progression

The Intermediate Wine Certificate (IWC) serves as the academic foundation for progression to the Advanced Wine Certificate (AWC).

Intermediate Wine Certificate (IWC) — Syllabus
Session 1
Viticulture
Vinification
History of Wine
Tasting Theory and proper language development

Session 2
Quiz
Labeling
Language Development

Session 3
Food & Wine Pairing
Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir

Session 4
Service
Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris, Muscat, Chenin Blanc
and Riesling

Session 5
Cellaring and Storage
Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Gamay and Zinfandel

Session 6
Study of Fortified Wines
Production and Serving of Sparkling Wine

Session 7
Syrah, Grenache, Sangiovese, Tempranillo and
Nebbiolo
Exam Review

Session 8
Exam

What Our Students Are Saying!

Loading testimonials...

Several delivery options available
Online Learning, Live On-Line, and Classroom
Training
Learn at your own pace

Online Learning

ONLINE LEARNING

Learn at your own pace

Get certified from the comfort of your home when and how you like to train.

Learn More
Meet up weekly

Live On-Line Learning

Live On-Line Learning

Meet Online Weekly

Do you like to learn with others but can't commit the time to classroom training. Well live On-line maybe just what your are looking for.

Learn More
Meets Live Weekly

Classroom Training

Classroom Training

Meets In Person Weekly

For those who just enjoy being social classroom traininig maybe just the right choice for you.

Learn More