Wine Business Management Certificate (WSET)

Program Overview

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About the Program

Registration and Inquiries

The Wine Business Management Certificate Program thoroughly introduces the exciting field of wine management and entrepreneurship. During the training, participants will experience numerous benefits, as explained below:

Program Benefits

Some of the Wine Business Management Certificate Program benefits include:

• Networking opportunities during business visits will help build your professional network in the wine industry.
• Master professional tasting techniques while obtaining the WSET Level 2 Award in Wines.
• Dive into the exciting world of wine entrepreneurship by creating your own wine brand.
• Gaining industry specialization or preparing your career transition through networking with reputed international wine & beverage guest lecturers.
• Acquire expertise through various regional certifications, such as Swiss Wine Specialist, Accredited Bordeaux Expert certificate, andChampagne Expert certificate.

Why Study Wine Business Management?

Still unsure of what wine business management can offer you?

The wine business management program provides a mix of traditional business education and business planning specifically tailored for the wine industry. Through this program, you will gain insights into the global wine market, consumer behavior, distribution channels, and specific marketing strategies for wine products.

What Can You Learn in a Wine Business Management Program?

The wine business management program covers all the essential topics needed for success in the wine industry. Participants will learn about vineyard management, wine production techniques, and the intricacies of viticulture.

Once you learn the basics, you will also learn the wine marketing and sales strategies, distribution logistics, and the global wine markets’ regulatory landscape. Graduates will have a comprehensive understanding of the business and cultural aspects of wine, and be ready to pursue careers in vineyard management, winery operations, marketing and sales, distribution, and hospitality management.

What Can You Do with a WSET Wine Certificate?

Earning a Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) certificate opens doors to many career opportunities within the wine industry. This globally recognized certification validates your expertise in wine production, tasting, and business fundamentals.

In addition, the WSET curriculum equips participants with practical skills in sensory evaluation, wine service, and food pairing, all essential for hospitality and culinary careers. However, beyond operational roles, this wine business certificate is valuable in marketing, sales, and distribution, allowing professionals to communicate and promote wine products to diverse audiences.

Hence, the certificate holders are highly qualified and desirable candidates for many roles, including sommeliers, wine educators, retail managers, and wine consultants.

Courses in Wine Business Management

Our wine business management program covers a diverse range of topics essential for success in the wine industry. This 10-week course is comprised of 5 modules:

Module 1: Winemaking & Sustainability and Learning to become a taste expert

• WSET Level 2, 18h, external international wine award received upon successful examination
• Wine immersion experience walking and working the vineyards
• Workshop on sustainability in the wine industry from renowned expert

Module 2: Wine and Food Pairing

• Food & wine pairing lunches
• Champagne pairing escape game
• Cheese and Wine Matching experience with specialists
• Chocolate & Wine Matching masterclasses with pastry chefs, chocolate experts and wine experts

Module 3: Building a Brand

• Marketing theory on branding
• Swiss Wine Specialist certificate
• Accredited Bordeaux Expert certificate
• Champagne Expert certificate
• Austrian wine expert certificate

Module 4: Wine Commerce, Marketing, and Wine Tourism

• Swiss wines promotion
• Vinery visits of cantons Valais and Vaud
• UNESCO Lavaux experience
• Wine trip crafted by students

Module 5: Starting a Wine business

• Business incubator experience
• Lectures with renowned Wine Brand representatives such as champagne Perrier-Jouët
• Wine Label Competition as a final project

Admission Requirements

If you are ready to start the admission process, here are all the requirements you need to fulfill:

• Minimum age of 18 years old.
• English Language Entry Requirements: The program is conducted 100% in English and requires English proficiency. You need to communicate with fluency and ease to grasp the material of the certificate.
• All applications will be considered on an individual basis: The program welcomes candidates with various prior learning and workplace backgrounds: the only prerequisite is passion or curiosity for the wine and beverage business.
• Apply early: If you need a student visa, please be sure to allow 8 – 12 weeks between the application and the program start date.

Wine Business Management Program Cost

The WSET wine certificate program spans five modules over 10 weeks. The total cost of tuition, food, and accommodation amounts to CHF 14,000. Accommodation is mandatory during these 10 weeks, and during term breaks, students have the option to stay on campus for an additional fee of CHF 360 per week.

Upcoming Dates

July 2025

July 2026

July 2027

FAQs

What is wine management?

Wine management involves overseeing the production, storage, and distribution of wines to ensure their quality, profitability, and customer satisfaction.

Is wine a good business?

Wine can be a profitable business if managed correctly. It requires a deep understanding of the industry, market trends, and customer preferences.

How do you become a wine manager?

To become a wine manager, you will need to acquire the right education and experience in viticulture, oenology, business management, and marketing. Obtaining certifications like a Wset Wine Certificate is highly recommended.

Do wineries make money?

Wineries can be profitable, but success depends on various factors such as production cost, marketing strategies, distribution channels, and the quality of the wine itself.

Program Outline

Outline:

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Program Content:

• Winemaking & Sustainability: Delve into the intricate world of winemaking, exploring sustainable practices and the art of crafting exceptional wines.
• Learning to become a Taste Expert: Acquire refined tasting techniques to discern the nuances of different wines and develop a discerning palate.
• WSET Level 2: Embark on a structured wine education journey with the internationally recognized Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Level 2 Award in Wines.
• Wine Immersion Experience: Experience the thrill of working alongside seasoned winemakers in the picturesque vineyards, immersing yourself in the practical aspects of winemaking.
• Workshop on Sustainability in the Wine Industry: Gain valuable insights from renowned experts on the sustainable approaches shaping the future of wine production.
• Wine and Food Pairing: Discover the harmonious relationship between food and wine, mastering the art of pairing culinary delights with the perfect vintages.
• Food & Wine Pairing Lunches: Engage in interactive lunches where you'll savor the exquisite flavors of expertly paired dishes and wines.
• Champagne Pairing Escape Game: Embark on a playful and educational escape game that challenges your wine knowledge and teamwork skills.
• Cheese and Wine Matching Experience: Delve into the nuances of cheese and wine pairings, guided by expert cheesemongers.
• Chocolate & Wine Matching Masterclasses: Explore the delectable world of chocolate and wine pairings, discovering the delicate balance of flavors.
• Building a Brand:
• Marketing Theory on Branding: Gain a comprehensive understanding of branding principles and their application in the wine industry.
• Swiss Wine Specialist Certificate: Acquire specialized knowledge of Swiss wines, enhancing your understanding of this renowned wine region.
• Accredited Bordeaux Expert Certificate: Become an expert in the prestigious wines of Bordeaux, gaining insights into their unique characteristics and terroir.
• Champagne Expert Certificate: Delve into the world of Champagne, exploring its history, production methods, and the nuances of its various styles.
• Austrian Wine Expert Certificate: Expand your wine knowledge to include the diverse and captivating wines of Austria.
• Wine Commerce, Marketing and Wine Tourism:
• Swiss Wines Promotion: Engage in hands-on promotion of Swiss wines, gaining practical experience in marketing and sales.
• Winery Visits of Cantons Valais and Vaud: Explore the renowned winemaking regions of Valais and Vaud, visiting esteemed wineries and learning from industry professionals.
• UNESCO Lavaux Experience: Immerse yourself in the UNESCO-designated Lavaux vineyards, marveling at the breathtaking scenery and understanding the cultural significance of this wine region.
• Wine Trip Crafted by Students: Embark on a student-led wine trip, designing an itinerary that caters to your interests and academic pursuits.
• Starting a Wine Business:
• Business Incubator Experience: Gain invaluable practical experience in launching a wine business through our innovative business incubator program.