Sommelier Levels Explained: A Guide to Wine Expertise and Certification

What exactly makes someone a sommelier? Is WSET Level 2 good enough? Do you need to go all the way to CMS Level 4? Or do you need a certification at all?

During the 2020–2021 academic year, more than 108,000 students around the world enrolled in a Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) program. Formal wine education is now more popular than ever.

But that doesn’t mean one size fits all. Someone hoping to work in a nice neighborhood bistro probably doesn’t need to train like a Master Sommelier. Only 282 people in the world have ever passed the Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS) Level 4 exam — and many respected sommeliers get by just fine without it.

That said, if you want to earn credibility in the industry, WSET Level 1 might give your resume a helpful bump, but it likely won’t be enough for top-tier sommelier roles. Most professionals aiming for fine dining or career advancement pursue at least WSET Level 2 or 3.

So what level do you need to reach your sommelier goals?

Once you start down a path, consistency matters. Choosing the right route early on can save you time, money, and frustration later on. This guide breaks down the different levels of the two most widely respected sommelier certifications (WSET and CMS) so you can find the best path for you.

Why Pursue a Certification for Sommelier Skills?

You don’t need a certification to call yourself a sommelier. But if you want to open more doors, earn more respect, and build a serious career in wine — it can make all the difference.

Better Job Opportunities

Without certification, you might land a job at a wine bar or a local spirits store. But if you’re aiming to work in fine dining or represent wines professionally, most employers will expect formal credentials.

With the right certification, your options expand: restaurant service, wine sales, education, distribution, importing, consulting — the industry is full of pathways, and a certification helps get your foot in the door.

Higher Earning Potential

Wine knowledge is valuable. But without a certification to back it up, it can be hard to prove your skills or negotiate a higher salary. Getting certified signals that you’ve put in the time and earned your expertise. That credibility can lead to raises, promotions, and more competitive roles.

Respect in the Industry

Within the wine world, credentials carry weight. You might be able to recite the entire history of lesser known grape varieties and blind taste just about anything. But passing the exams shows discipline and dedication — and verifies that your knowledge is accurate.

“If somebody asked me…in the past, I would have said, ‘A sommelier is a position in a restaurant,’ … But I think things have changed in the pandemic.” - Dustin Wilson, Master Sommelier (Wine Enthusiast)

Today, the word “sommelier” applies more broadly, and the standards remain quite high. A modern sommelier needs to learn and apply a lot of knowledge to succeed in the profession.

Two Main Wine Certification Paths

There are many ways to study wine, but two certification paths stand out for aspiring sommeliers: Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) and the Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS). Each one serves a different type of wine professional, and choosing the right fit depends on your goals.

WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust)

WSET offers a structured, classroom-based approach to wine education. It's ideal for professionals in sales, retail, distribution, and education as well as hospitality. It focuses on wine production, grapes, styles, tasting techniques, and global regions — albeit with less direct emphasis on restaurant service. For those pursuing deep expertise or aiming for the Master of Wine (MW) title, the WSET Level 4 Diploma is a globally recognized milestone.

WSET Levels Overview

• Level 1

• Level 2

• Level 3

• Level 4 (Diploma)

Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS)

CMS is designed for hospitality professionals working in restaurants, with a strong focus on real-world service skills. This certification emphasizes guest interaction, food and wine pairing, bottle service, decanting, and tableside etiquette (all performed under pressure). Unlike WSET, most CMS learning happens through self-study and hands-on experience. It is a good choice for anyone leading a wine program or in fine dining.

CMS Levels Overview

• Introductory Sommelier

• Certified Sommelier

• Advanced Sommelier

• Master Sommelier

WSET vs. CMS: Key Differences at a Glance

TIP: Both certification routes are highly respected, but the right one for you depends on your goals.

WSET Certification Levels

“One of the most important things about studying with WSET versus studying elsewhere is that it truly is a globally recognised qualification.” - Dave Rudman, Former WSET Executive (Wine Enthusiast).

WSET offers a globally recognized pathway to deepen your wine knowledge and credentials. Whether you're just starting out or aiming for advanced proficiency, WSET's structured certification levels are designed to build your expertise for a wide range of career opportunities.

Level 1 Award in Wines (Course + Exam)

The Level 1 Award in Wines is perfect for anyone new to wine or looking to build a foundation of wine knowledge. The class is relaxed and approachable, with no pressure or prior knowledge required. While not mandatory to move on, it's a great place to start if you're brand new to the world of wine.

Prerequisites

• No prior experience or certifications required

What Level 1 Includes

• One-day Course (In-Person or Online): Covers food and wine pairing principles, wine grape varieties, and basics of wine. ~6 hours of total study time (typically completed in one day).

• Workbook: Structured course material to guide learning.

• (In-Person) Guided Tasting: 6–8 wines

• Exam: 30-questions, multiple-choice

• Certificate (and digital badge) upon passing

2025 Cost Estimate Through NVWA

In-Person Course: $399 (NVWA WSET Level 1 In-Person)

Online/On-Demand: $299–$329 (NVWA Online Courses)

TIP: If you already know basic wine styles, grape varieties, and service techniques, you might be ready to skip ahead to Level 2.

Sommelier Level

With WSET Level 1, you may not land your dream sommelier job quite yet. It isn’t robust enough to give you tableside wine-serving confidence, but it’s an affordable way to get started from scratch.

Level 2 Award in Wines (Multi-Course + Exam)

WSET Level 2 is designed for people with a little wine knowledge (or a lot of curiosity). It’s a step up in detail and depth from Level 1 but still accessible to beginners. This course introduces structured tasting, key wine regions, grape varieties, and wine production methods. It’s ideal for anyone working in wine sales, retail, or hospitality, and for enthusiasts who want to build confidence in their wine vocabulary and analysis skills.

Prerequisites

• No prior certifications or coursework required

What the Level Includes

2025 Cost Estimate Through NVWA

In-Person Course: $933 (NVWA Level 2 In-Person)

Online: $599–$679 (NVWA Level 2 Online Courses) + Wine Tasting Kit (Add-On): $150/each

Sommelier Level

WSET Level 2 is where students really develop their wine knowledge and get into the weeds of what makes wine so special. Provided you accompany this certification with service experience, this can help you get many sommelier positions. If you already have a wine serving job, WSET Level 2 will likely help you get a raise or promotion. However, for high-end wine serving and education roles, you’ll need to go further.

Level 3 Award in Wines (Multi-Course + Exam)

WSET Level 3 is where wine education gets really serious. This course is for professionals and dedicated students who want to develop a deep understanding of wine production, grape growing, terroir, and stylistic differences. It introduces detailed theory and critical tasting skills (including a blind tasting component). This level is often considered the benchmark for wine educators, distributors, and sommeliers aiming to level up in the industry.

Prerequisites

• WSET Level 2 recommended (but not strictly required)

• Strong self-study and tasting practice are essential for success

What the Level Includes

2025 Cost Estimate Through NVWA

In-Person Course: $1,699 (NVWA Level 3 In-Person)

Online Course: $1,099 (NVWA Level 3 Online Course) + Wine Tasting Kit (Add-On): $305/each

NOTE: There is no on-demand version of this certification level.

Sommelier Level

WSET Level 3 is a deeper version of Level 2 and is certainly enough to get you an interview for most sommelier positions. If you already have a sommelier position, a level 3 certification may get you a raise or a promotion to leading a wine program. This is one of the highest levels of wine certification, but there’s still more to go if you want to truly become a master in your field.

Level 4 Diploma in Wines (Multi-Course + Exam)

The WSET Level 4 Diploma is the ultimate WSET certification. Successful students achieve an expert-level understanding of the factors influencing a wine's style, quality, and price. This makes it ideal for sommeliers seeking to deepen their theoretical knowledge and tasting skills or anyone moving into wine education.

Prerequisites

• (Required) Successful completion of the WSET Level 3 Award in Wines.

• Approximately 500 hours of study over 2-3 years.

What the Level Includes

For WSET Level 4 (Diploma), there is no distinction between the in-person and online offerings, as the entire level consists of independent and instructor-verified work. Here is what you can expect with Level 4:

• Six mandatory units (D1–D6): Includes coursework and examinations (with unlimited retakes) for each. Units include:

• D1: Wine Production

• D2: Wine Business

• D3: Wines of the World

• D4: Sparkling Wines

• D5: Fortified Wines

• D6: Independent Research Assignment (3,000 word paper)

• Live, Instructor-Led Webinars: Included for every unit, all recorded for on-demand review.

• Online Classroom: With vocab lists, quizzes, mock exams, and pointers on past exam questions.

• Personalized Feedback: Feedback on practice answers from a teaching team that includes 4 Masters of Wine and 12 additional specialists (plus a dedicated Diploma support staff).

• Weekly Lessons and Study Schedules: To help stay on track for the 18- to 36-month completion window.

• Optional Wine Kits: Available for D1, D3, D4 and D5 (so you can taste exactly what instructors taste with no sourcing required).

• Tasting and Theory Workshops: These teach a verified approach to the WSET Diploma exam and help calibrate your palate.

• Three-Year Access to WSET Material: Includes digital textbooks and online resources (renewable if you need more time).

• Dedicated Support Team: To help you navigate registration, exam logistics, and study planning throughout the program.

2025 Cost Estimate Through NVWA

Each diploma unit (D1–D6) is priced separately. For example, D3 (Wines of the World) is $2,650, while D6 (Independent Research Assignment) is $399.

However, total program price varies depending on what add-ons you choose. If you complete all six units and skip the optional wine kits, the total cost comes out to approximately $7,500 USD. If you choose to include all available wine kits, the full program comes to just over $9,500 USD.

Sommelier Level

If you have a WSET level 4 diploma, you probably have a good shot at getting just about any sommelier job — or any job in the wine industry for that matter. This level should afford you mastery over wine theory, tasting, and even winemaking. If you’re looking to go all the way and open as many doors as possible for your wine career, WSET Level 4 is a great goal.

Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS) Certification Levels

If you want a career in restaurant wine service, the Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS) offers a structured certification path that emphasizes practical tasting and service skills as well as deep beverage knowledge. Unlike WSET, which focuses more on theory and production, CMS is tailored for professionals working the floor in hospitality settings.

Here’s a breakdown of the 4 levels:

Introductory Sommelier Course & Examination

The Introductory Sommelier Course is designed for individuals in the hospitality, wholesale, and retail sectors, or anyone considering a career as a professional sommelier. The course is taught exclusively by Master Sommeliers and is available both in-person and online.

Prerequisites

• No prior certification required.

• (Recommended) 3 years in the beverage industry.

What the Level Includes

• Course: Comprehensive instruction on wine theory, service standards, and the Deductive Tasting Method. Includes coverage of spirits, beer, sake, and other beverages.

• Practical Elements: Guided tastings and service demonstrations.

• Workbook: Access to the Introductory Sommelier Course Workbook.

• Exam: 70 questions, multiple-choice — to be completed within 45 minutes.

• A minimum score of 60% is required to pass.

• Certificate and lapel pin upon successful completion.

2025 Cost Estimate

In-Person Course + Exam: $899 (includes wines).

Online Course + Exam: $599 (wines sold separately).

Additional Wine Kit: $250

TIP:  The online course allows you to learn at your own pace over 180 days, making it ideal for those with busy schedules.

Sommelier Level

The Introductory Sommelier Course is a foundational entry point for anyone aspiring to become a professional sommelier. While it provides essential knowledge. it does not necessarily qualify you to work as a sommelier. However, the certification is a prerequisite for more advanced CMS certifications.

Certified Sommelier Examination

The Certified Sommelier Examination is the second level in the CMS certification path. It assesses a candidate's proficiency in deductive tasting, wine, and beverage theory as well as technical and salesmanship skills in tableside service. This exam is well recognized in the hospitality sector across the globe and assures employers and the dining public of a sommelier's expertise.

Prerequisites

• (Required) Successful completion of the Introductory Sommelier Course and Examination.

• (Recommended) Three years in the industry.

• (Recommended) One year of preparation between the Introductory Course and attempting Certified.

What the Level Includes

NOTE: The Certified Sommelier level is an IN-PERSON ONLY course.

• A one-day exam comprising three sections:

• Tasting Examination: Written tasting of four wines (two white and two red) to be completed in 45 minutes.

• Theory Examination: 45 questions covering wine, beverage, and sommelier trade knowledge to be completed in 38 minutes.

• Hospitality & Service Examination: Practical service tasks simulating a real restaurant environment, including opening wines, recommending beverages, and discussing food and wine pairings.

• Candidates must achieve a minimum of 60% on all sections within one exam sitting.

• Certificate and lapel pin upon successful completion.

2025 Cost Estimate

The cost for the Certified Sommelier Examination is not specified on the CMS website, but it is likely $699 to $799 (depending on location).

TIP: The Certified Sommelier Examination is issued in digital format using the Examplify application. Candidates are required to bring their own device for the Theory and Tasting portions of the exam.

Sommelier Level

Earning the Certified Sommelier Examination shows that you have the core skills required to work effectively in a sommelier role. It’s widely recognized in the industry, and those who achieve this level develop a deep understanding of wine theory, blind tasting, and tableside service. This certification is likely the minimum qualification for positions like wine steward or junior sommelier in fine dining environments.

Advanced Sommelier (Course + Exam)

The Advanced Sommelier level is a serious leap forward. This stage is designed for working sommeliers who already hold the Certified credential and are ready to deepen their skills. It introduces a formal, multi-day course led by Master Sommeliers, followed by a rigorous three-part exam. Candidates are expected to display a polished command of wine knowledge and service at a professional level.

Prerequisites

• (Required) Successful completion of the Certified Sommelier Exam.

• (Required) 2 years of industry/service experience within the past 7 years.

• (Recommended) 1 year of study after passing Certified.

• (Required) Pass the Sommelier Knowledge Assessment (SKA) to qualify for the course and exam

What the Level Includes

NOTE: The Advanced Sommelier level is an IN-PERSON ONLY course.

• 3-day in-person course: Classroom-style lectures led by Master Sommeliers. Includes tasting sessions and service exercises and a preparation framework for the exam.

• Three-part exam:

• Written theory exam (wine and beverage knowledge)

• Verbal blind tasting exam (oral identification and analysis)

• Practical service exam (tableside wine service and guest interaction)

• A minimum score of 60% on each section is required to pass.

2025 Cost Estimate

Application Fee: $100

Advanced Sommelier Course: $1799 - $1899

Advanced Sommelier Theory Examination: $399

Advanced Sommelier Practical and Tasting Examinations: $999

TIP: Many candidates take at least 2–3 years to prepare. Study groups and mentorship are highly recommended.

Sommelier Level

The Advanced Sommelier certification represents a significant step up in both skill and recognition. It confirms a high level of expertise in wine theory, tasting, and service. At this level, you’ll be qualified for positions like head sommelier, wine director, or beverage manager at top-tier establishments. If you choose the CMS route, you might practically consider this the highest level, as the next (final) level has an incredibly narrow passing rate.

Master Sommelier Diploma (Exam Only)

The Master Sommelier Diploma is the highest honor in restaurant wine service — and one of the most difficult exams in the world. It’s not a course, but a multi-stage exam that requires exceptional depth of knowledge, communication, poise, and precision. Candidates are expected to master every aspect of wine theory, deductive tasting, and service under pressure. The pass rate is famously low — but the respect it commands is unmatched.

“As a fellow – and more veteran – Master Sommelier once said to me, ‘An MS should be able to say something sensible about any wine, from anywhere in the world.’” — Matt Stamp, Master Sommelier (Decanter)

Prerequisites

• (Required) Successful completion of the Advanced Sommelier Exam.

• (Recommended) 3 or more years of intensive preparation.

• Must wear formal service attire and bring your own tools.

What the Level Includes

• Three-part exam:

• Oral Exam: A 50-minute verbal test on global wine theory and sommelier responsibilities. If passed, you have 3 years to complete the remaining two parts.

• Tasting Exam: Deductive blind tasting of 6 wines.

• Practical Exam: Advanced service, covering glassware, decanting, guest interaction, and sales technique.

• You may retake any failed component within the 3-year window

• Passing score: 75%+ on each section

• Pass rate: ~10% overall

2025 Cost Estimate

Application Fee: $100 USD

Costs for the final level of Master Sommelier Certification vary widely. Not only do you need to supply your own tools, but you also must pay to apply and for each exam. You must also pay for any re-takes if you don’t pass the first time (which is likely, given the 10% pass rate).

As a rough estimate, you may estimate $4,100 - $6,000+ in exam/course fees.

Sommelier Level

At this level, if you can’t get a sommelier job, no one can. This is, without a doubt, the most prestigious and difficult wine certification in the world. After passing it, you could write books, teach classes, and pretty much run any wine-related program you can think of.

At the same time, since CMS is focused on service, it may not help you learn everything you need in regard to business, distribution, or the skills needed to deal in every part of the wine industry.

Other Wine Sommelier Certifications

While WSET and CMS are the most recognized paths for aspiring sommeliers, several other respected certifications offer specialized knowledge and career opportunities in wine.

Institute of Masters of Wine (IMW) – Master of Wine (MW)

The Master of Wine (MW) is one of the highest honors in the wine world. Offered by the Institute of Masters of Wine, this program is designed for professionals across the wine industry, including educators, buyers, and journalists. Candidates must hold an advanced wine qualification, such as the WSET Diploma or an equivalent, and have at least three years of professional wine experience. The program involves rigorous theory and practical exams (as well as a research paper). It typically takes a minimum of three years to complete.

International Sommelier Guild (ISG)

The ISG offers a structured program with three levels, combining wine theory, service, and tasting skills. It's well-suited for those seeking an education in wine and hospitality.

• Level 1 & 2: Introductory courses covering basic to intermediate wine knowledge.

• Level 3: Sommelier Diploma Program (SDP): An advanced course focusing on professional-level wine theory, service, and tasting.

Wine Scholar Guild (WSG)

The WSG specializes in region-specific certifications, offering in-depth studies of France, Italy, and Spain. These programs are ideal for those looking to specialize in a particular country's wines.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a certified sommelier isn’t just about passing tests. It’s about sharpening your skills and proving to yourself (and the industry) that you’re serious about wine.

CMS is known for its intensity and focus on service, and it carries serious weight (especially in restaurants). But WSET is just as respected, and far more versatile. Plus, it’s taught the same way around the world, with a globally standardized curriculum that prepares you for a wide range of careers.

At Napa Valley Wine Academy, we believe WSET offers the most comprehensive, flexible path for anyone who wants to grow in the wine world. We’ll help guide you along a journey that is supportive, practical, and unforgettable.

Whether you're starting from scratch or ready to take the next step, we offer WSET courses at every level (online or in-person) so you can learn in the way that works best for you.

Browse WSET courses today to take the first step on your sommelier journey.