Italian Wine Scholar™ Program
This is the most comprehensive specialization program for Italian wine.
Curated by Maurizio Brioggi, DipWSET, FWS (with support from the Italian wine DOC/G consortia) it is specifically designed for the serious wine student. One committed to authenticity, detail, and respect for the region. While it will academically challenge the individual, the learning environment is one of encouragement and support – with your success as the ultimate goal.
The program offers an unparalleled level of depth in regards to Italian wine:
Grape Varieties & Viticulture
Winemaking Process & Technique
Industry Trends and Economics
Styles and Specificities of Italy’s DOCs and DOCGs
Italian Wine Laws & Regulations
*There will be no additional fee for the full-color IWS study manual, 1-year access to all online materials, exam registration, or any tastings included.
Sessions:
Unit 1 -Northern Italy
Fall 2025, Dates TBA
Each classroom day includes guided tasting of over 10 delicious wines as well as a traditional, regional, shared lunch. In-person learning is complemented by two sessions in the Online Classroom.. Certification Exam is scheduled for one month after completion of course.
Unit 2 - Central and Southern Italy
Spring 2025, Dates TBA
Each classroom day includes guided tasting of over 10 delicious wines as well as a traditional, regional, shared lunch. In-person learning is complemented by two sessions in the Online Classroom.. Certification Exam is scheduled for one month after completion of course.
Tuition: $1096 per Unit
Tuition for both Units: $2192
(includes all wine fees, printed textbooks, online course materials, exam, certificate, pin and traditional, regional lunch to correspond with learning).
This is the most comprehensive specialization program for Italian wine.
Curated by Maurizio Brioggi, DipWSET, FWS (with support from the Italian wine DOC/G consortia) it is specifically designed for the serious wine student. One committed to authenticity, detail, and respect for the region. While it will academically challenge the individual, the learning environment is one of encouragement and support – with your success as the ultimate goal.
The program offers an unparalleled level of depth in regards to Italian wine:
Grape Varieties & Viticulture
Winemaking Process & Technique
Industry Trends and Economics
Styles and Specificities of Italy’s DOCs and DOCGs
Italian Wine Laws & Regulations
*There will be no additional fee for the full-color IWS study manual, 1-year access to all online materials, exam registration, or any tastings included.
Sessions:
Unit 1 -Northern Italy
Fall 2025, Dates TBA
Each classroom day includes guided tasting of over 10 delicious wines as well as a traditional, regional, shared lunch. In-person learning is complemented by two sessions in the Online Classroom.. Certification Exam is scheduled for one month after completion of course.
Unit 2 - Central and Southern Italy
Spring 2025, Dates TBA
Each classroom day includes guided tasting of over 10 delicious wines as well as a traditional, regional, shared lunch. In-person learning is complemented by two sessions in the Online Classroom.. Certification Exam is scheduled for one month after completion of course.
Tuition: $1096 per Unit
Tuition for both Units: $2192
(includes all wine fees, printed textbooks, online course materials, exam, certificate, pin and traditional, regional lunch to correspond with learning).
Who should take this course:
This is a high-level certification course ideal for students with a solid foundation in basic wine knowledge and/or previous training. It will be imperative that students allocate time outside of class for reading and review in order to be successful in this rigorous course.
About the exam
The exam for each unit consists of 100 multiple-choice questions. Candidates need a composite score of 75% to receive the IWS credential. Those with a composite score of 85-90% pass with honors. Any student with a composite score of 91-100% will pass with highest honors.
About the Instructor:
Tanya Morning Star: Owner and educator of the Seattle-based wine school Cellar Muse, she is a Vinitaly International Wine Ambassador and Official Orvieto Wine Ambassador.
Alberto Martinez Interiano, DipWSET: Also a Vinitaly Italian Wine Ambassador, Alberto is a Certified Rioja and Sherry Educator, as well.