California Wine Certification Program: Capstone Level 1
Focused expertise in California’s wine regions, varieties, and regional identity.
Course Overview
A specialised programme on California wine covering major eras in California wine history (Mission era, post-Gold Rush expansion, Prohibition, and modern resurgence), the impact of Pacific Ocean influence and mountain ranges on viticulture, grape-growing practices and significant grape varieties, and the AVA framework including landmark regions such as Napa Valley and Sonoma County.
View our WSET Cancellation, Refund & Transfer Policies (PDF)What you will learn
- Map California’s major wine regions and climatic influences
- Recognise leading varieties and typical wine styles by area
- Explain labelling and AVA concepts relevant to California
- Taste with reference to regional and stylistic benchmarks
- Communicate California wine confidently to customers or audiences
Who is this for?
Wine professionals and advanced enthusiasts who want recognised depth in California wine without duplicating the full WSET wine ladder.
Meet your Lead Instructor
Sovna Puri
Her journey began with an internship in France at a Michelin-starred Relais & Chateaux property where she first met a sommelier. After IHM Mumbai and Masters in Hospitality in France, she worked as Assistant Head Sommelier at Benares (Michelin-starred, London) for 2+ years, tasting 50-80 wines daily.
From the classroom
Sovna has taken me through WSET levels 1, 2 and 3. At level 3, one realizes just how complex a subject this is and how extraordinary it is for someone to not merely be able to master it, but to explain it so brilliantly.
The course sparked my interest in wines. It made me realise that this is an excessively male-dominated industry. The industry needs more women, and I think trainers like Sovna are doing an excellent job in bringing more women to it.
Frequently asked questions
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