Photo by Mirentxu Bellet

The Sommeliers Association of India (SAI) is a unique platform dedicated to enhancing the education and training of sommeliers across the country.
While SAI does not offer formal qualification courses itself, it plays a vital role in connecting its members with internationally recognized education providers, such as the Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS), the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET), and the Wine Scholar Guild (WSG). These programs provide a solid foundation for those pursuing globally acknowledged qualifications, equipping them with the knowledge needed to excel in the wine and spirits industry. Through SAI, members can also network with peers both nationally and internationally, gaining insights, sharing experiences, and competing for esteemed titles on a global stage. This combination of education, certification, and networking makes SAI a pivotal resource for the sommelier community.

Qualifications and competitions are the keystones to getting the exposure and opportunities required to improve members’ skills and knowledge, and to network with the community. The main goal is to discover the best version of yourself.

Mattia Antonio Cianca

Co-Founder & Vice-President, Sommeliers Association of India

Education

The Sommeliers Association of India (SAI) will offer members access to the ASI certification courses within India, providing an exclusive opportunity to attain these prestigious credentials. SAI will also develop, collaborate and offer additional training and education programs that can contribute to the continuous professional development of Indian Sommeliers, keeping them abreast of the latest industry knowledge and trends. The advanced courses, workshops, and masterclasses offered can provide advanced training and professional development opportunities for Indian sommeliers.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR ASI CERTIFICATION

The ASI Sommelier Diploma was created in 2012 to promote the overall education, know-how, and well-being of sommeliers and harmonise their level worldwide. To date, 549 sommeliers have successfully qualified for the Diploma, becoming ASI Sommeliers and marking themselves as part of the elite of international Sommellerie.

The ASI Certification 1 & 2 exams, by contrast, were launched in 2021.
• 467 candidates representing 41 nationalities appeared for the ASI Certification 1.
• 327 achieved the required 65% passing mark and graduated as ASI Certification 1 recipients.

The exams are open to sommeliers or future/aspiring sommeliers studying or working in the oeno-gastronomic world (restaurants, wine bars, wine merchants, distribution…) according to the official definition of International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV).

Exams

Sommellerie demands a comprehensive skill set encompassing tasting, wine culture, food pairing, oenology, viticulture, and language proficiency. The examination program, consisting of three levels, caters to sommeliers at various career stages. While each level builds upon the previous one, candidates are not required to complete lower levels before attempting higher ones. All ASI exams are designed as outcome-based assessments, focusing on practical application and competency.

ASI Certifications

CERTIFICATION 1

ASI Certification 1 assesses whether a prospective sommelier has mastered the core international knowledge required for this profession.

CERTIFICATION 2

This Certification is aimed at those who have already been in the profession for some years and who are able to hold the responsibility of head sommelier.

ASI DIPLOMA

The ASI Diploma Certification is structured to evaluate the depth and mastery of knowledge acquired while remaining true to the classical and traditional topics.

Code of Ethics

We want to advocate for responsible alcohol consumption and ethical practices within the alcohol and beverage industry in India.

Quick links

Contact us

Working Hours:
Monday - Friday:
9am-6pm

Phone Number:
+91 8652299299

Close-up of wine bottles stored in a wine rack, showcasing the bottle caps and subtle lighting.

Professionals

We create a sense of community among wine and spirits professionals, encouraging a supportive environment for learning, sharing, and collaborating. Additionally, we advocate for the beverage and hospitality industry, representing the interests of our members in various forums and discussions, ensuring their voices are heard and their contributions recognized.

Sommeliers

Our community brings together sommeliers and aspiring sommeliers, offering a space to connect, learn, and grow. Through masterclasses, tastings, training programs, and exclusive events, we empower our members with the skills and knowledge to excel. We also organize seminars and competitions that expose members to international standards, helping them stay at the forefront of the wine industry.

Enthusiasts

We bring together a strong network of passionate wine aficionados. By promoting a deeper appreciation and understanding of the broader beverage culture and heritage, we aim to enrich the experience for all members, enhancing both their knowledge and lifestyle.

Importers & Distributors

Leveraging the expertise and network of sommeliers to enhance business operations, expand market reach, and elevate brand reputation serves as a valuable partner for wine importers and distributors by offering specialised knowledge, market insights, training, networking opportunities, and promotional support.

Winemaker inspecting wine bottle in a cellar, checking clarity and sediment before corking.

Producers

Actively promote and support the growth of the Indian beverage industry by organizing events, tastings, and promotions. Establish partnerships with wineries, distilleries, and breweries to showcase their products, encouraging a greater appreciation for the diversity of Indian produce.

Hospitality

We are dedicated to enhancing your Beverage Programme by providing access to a talented pool of qualified sommeliers and comprehensive educational resources. Our goal is to assist you in curating exceptional wine lists for your hotel, restaurant, or wine bar, elevating your guests' dining experience.

Certification 1

This Certification has been prepared mainly for students of hotel schools/colleges and service staff who intend to start a course of improvement in our sector. It aims to cover the broad general knowledge necessary for a young person to feel comfortable as an assistant sommelier with international clients.

ASI Certification 1

Certification 2

ASI Certification 2 tests whether candidates possess the set of skills required to practice the profession in an international environment. This Certification is aimed at those who have already been in the profession for some years and who are able to hold the responsibility of head sommelier.
The ASI Certification 2 exam is offered every year during the October/November period in French, English and Spanish. Other languages may be offered where possible.

ASI Certification 2

ASI Diploma

The ASI Sommelier Diploma is reserved for members of the sommelier community who achieve, "a high standard of service together with a deep knowledge of global food and wine, beverage management, and the culture of the Vine and Wine", transforming their work into art.