What is the CMS?
The Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS) is the world’s most respected institution for wine and beverage service education.
Founded in 1977, its mission is to elevate beverage and hospitality standards through education, mentorship, and credentialing.
The CMS pathway includes four levels of achievement:
- Introductory Sommelier Course & Examination
- Certified Sommelier Examination
- Advanced Sommelier Examination
- Master Sommelier Diploma (held by fewer than 300 individuals worldwide)
By offering the first two levels — Introductory and Certified — in the Philippines, Winedrop provides hospitality professionals with a direct path to internationally recognized certification.
Why the CMS Matters
- Boost Wine Sales – Certified staff confidently recommend and upsell bottles, improving guest satisfaction and revenue.
- Refine Service Standards – Training sharpens knowledge, tasting technique, and service etiquette to match global benchmarks.
- Strengthen Brand Image – Establishments with certified sommeliers stand out, especially as Michelin recognition begins shaping diner expectations in the Philippines.
Introductory Sommelier Course & Examination
The Introductory Sommelier Course & Exam is a two-day, fast-paced intensive program that combines lectures, guided tastings, and service demonstrations.
- Exam Format: 70 multiple-choice questions based on course content.
- Duration: 45 minutes.
- Passing Score: Minimum 60% to earn the Introductory Sommelier pin and certificate.
- Who It’s For: Hospitality professionals, aspiring sommeliers, and serious wine enthusiasts.
Certified Sommelier Course & Examination
The Certified Sommelier Examination is the next step after passing the Introductory level.
It evaluates candidates across theory, tasting, and service with a strong focus on real-world application.
Exam Components:
- Theory – Written exam on wine and beverage knowledge
- Blind Tasting – Deductive analysis of classic wines
- Service Exam – Food & wine pairing, sparkling service, salesmanship, and hospitality skills
Achieving the Certified Sommelier credential signals globally recognized expertise in beverage service and program management.
2026 Program Details (Philippines)
- Location: To be announced
- Faculty: Court of Master Sommeliers, Americas adjudicators
- Support: Free review classes by the Philippine Sommelier Association; tasting bottles available at wholesale rates for enrolled students
Dates:
- July 1 – Introductory Course (Day 1)
- July 2 – Introductory Course & Exam (Day 2)
- July 3 – Certified Sommelier Course & Exam
Who Should Enroll
- Hospitality Leaders – F&B directors, managers, sommeliers, and service staff
- Wine Trade Professionals – Importers, distributors, and retailers seeking global recognition
- Hotels & Resorts – Beverage program leaders looking to meet international standards
- Aspiring Sommeliers – Those seeking to begin or advance on the CMS pathway
Raise the Standard of Wine Service — Together
The CMS Introductory and Certified Sommelier Courses offer an unparalleled opportunity for Filipino professionals to gain globally recognized credentials without leaving the country.