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The profession of sommelier in Germany is being placed on a modern and more practice-orientated footing. As announced by the private International Wine Institute (IWI) in Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler, from October the IHK-certified sommelier training programme will be adapted to level 5 of the German Qualifications Framework (DQR) as a "Certified Professional Specialist Sommelier".
Certification by the Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK) means that the professional title is recognised under public law. The DQR enables qualifications to be categorised in Germany and Europe. Level 5 in the DQR is the "master craftsman level" above a completed vocational training programme (DQR 4) and below Bachelor level (DQR 6).
The "Certified Professional Sommelier Specialist" training programme comprises over 400 teaching units in a face-to-face or distance learning course. The new curriculum focuses on management development combined with in-depth wine knowledge. The new topics and examination areas include: "Advising, looking after and catering for guests" and "Managing the restaurant". In addition, the qualifications in the areas of marketing and beverage knowledge are significantly expanded. The course is aimed at employees and self-employed entrepreneurs in the catering industry who wish to deepen and expand their specialist knowledge.
Just a few days ago, the German Wine and Sommelier School (DWS) announced that the "Certified Master Sommelier" qualification is now at level 6 in the DQR, i.e. Bachelor.
(al / source: press release)