The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) has created a new Wine and Beverage Certificate Program for 2010 at Greystone, the school’s Napa Valley campus.
There are three national wine certification programs in the United States, five regional ones, and dozens of sommelier schools. Each has its own set of nomenclature and exam criteria.
The Accelerated Wine and Beverage Certificate Program (AWBP) will advance a student’s professional skills in the wine and beverage sector. An AWBP certificate will position graduates to pursue career opportunities in numerous segments of the food and beverage industry.
“A deep understanding of wine, beer, spirits – even coffee and tea – is vital to career success in the foodservice and hospitality fields,” said Adam Busby, CMC and Director of Education at CIA Greystone. The pioneering AWBP program will equip students with skills and insights required for advancement toward leadership positions in beverage management in both fine and casual dining, restaurant front-of-house management, wine and beverage retail, wholesale, and more.
The accredited 30-week AWBP will impart knowledge and skills related to sensory evaluation, flavor dynamics, cellar management, and mixology. Food and beverage pairing, service, and hospitality are major components of the eight-month curriculum. “AWBP students will graduate with a wine and beverage education on par with those skills learned by the CIA’s culinary students,” notes Busby.
The program launches in September 2010 at the CIA’s Greystone campus in St. Helena, CA. Classes will be held at the Rudd Center for Professional Wine Studies, a state-of-the-art complex featuring two tasting theaters ideally designed for the in-depth study of wines and beverages.
Program enrollees must have a bachelor’s or associate degree in hospitality management, culinary arts management, or a related field, or have a bachelor’s degree in another discipline as well as relevant food and beverage industry experience. Financial aid is available for those who qualify.
Held in the Napa Valley, immersive educational programs such as creative beverage, culinary, and sensory seminars; fun and challenging tasting exercises; and career-focused coaching opportunities.