Cocktail Hour - IWEG Monthly Newsletter May. 04, 2017
« Back to NewsIWEG'S 40 YEAR LEGACY IN WINE, SPIRITS AND SAKE EDUCATION
Ron Murphy DipWSET is a member of the inaugural IWEG WSET Level 4 Diploma in Wines and Spirits graduating class from 1988. He recently shared with us a memento of IWEG's legacy in wine, spirits and sake education:
IWEG was the first international APP outside of London, U.K. in 1987 to deliver the WSET Level 4 Diploma in Wines and Spirits program. Our thirty years of Diploma experience, coupled with extensive consultations with Diploma alumni, the WSET, our education officers and faculty has led to the creation of a robust Diploma course delivery, designed to maximize student success at this level of study.
Join us for a Diploma information session on Wednesday, May 31, 7 - 8PM. This is an oppourtunity to meet our Diploma coordinators Peter Wearing, DipWSET and Eugene Mlynczyk, DipWSET, MW. Ask questions and experiment with the WSET Level 4 Systematic Approach to Tasting. RSVP: admin@iweg.org
IWEG was the first international APP outside of London, U.K. in 1987 to deliver the WSET Level 4 Diploma in Wines and Spirits program. Our thirty years of Diploma experience, coupled with extensive consultations with Diploma alumni, the WSET, our education officers and faculty has led to the creation of a robust Diploma course delivery, designed to maximize student success at this level of study.
Join us for a Diploma information session on Wednesday, May 31, 7 - 8PM. This is an oppourtunity to meet our Diploma coordinators Peter Wearing, DipWSET and Eugene Mlynczyk, DipWSET, MW. Ask questions and experiment with the WSET Level 4 Systematic Approach to Tasting. RSVP: admin@iweg.org
UPCOMING COURSES
WSET Level 1 Award in Wines + so much more
Date: Saturday, May 27th @ 9:30AM - 5:30PM
Location: IWEG Drinks Academy
Register Now!
WSET Level 1 Award in Spirits - NEW!
Date: Saturday, May 6th @ 9:30AM - 4:45PM
Location: IWEG Drinks Academy
Register Now!
WSET Level 1 Award in Sake + so much more
Date: Saturday, June 3rd @ 9:30AM - 5:30PM
Location: IWEG Drinks Academy
Register Now!
WSET Level 2 Award in Wine and Spirits - 3 DAYS!
Date: Monday June 12th, 19th, and 26th @ 9:30 AM - 4:30PM
Location: IWEG Drinks Academy
Register Now!
WSET Level 2 Award in Wine and Spirits - @ Wine Academy
Date: Tuesdays June 20th - July 25th @ 6:30 PM
Location: Wine Academy
Register Now!
WSET Level 3 Award in Wines
Date: Mondays and Wednesdays, September 20th - November 20th @ 7PM
Location: IWEG Drinks Academy
Register Now!
Italian Wine Scholar: Unit 2 - NEW!
Date: Tuesdays, October 3rd - November 14th @ 7PM
Location: IWEG Drinks Academy
Register Now!
The Wines of Portugal Academy Initiation Level 1 - NEW!
Date: Saturday, June 3rd @ 1:00PM - 5:00PM
Location: IWEG Drinks Academy
Register Now!
40 YEARS STRONG BY MONICA RALPHS
It is with great pride that we celebrate IWEG’s Quadragennial Anniversary this year. With a long history of nurturing talent and encouraging the curiosity of budding wine lovers and wine professionals alike, the Independent Wine Education Guild, has through the years continued to offer its students the supportive environment required to succeed. Its faculty of trained instructors has contributed to the school’s success and is an asset in the school’s reputation.
For many years, the Board of Directors included the ‘who’s who’ of the wine industry, and this dedicated volunteer group of wine professionals laid the cornerstone for what was to become WSET’s first flag bearing school in Canada. Our thanks go out to them, for without their contribution, IWEG would not have begun this 40-year long journey.
The role of the Executive Director, required the adept handling of all day to day challenges on the front lines in what became an increasingly competitive environment. Maintaining the relationship with WSET and forging partnerships with various industry bodies, kudos go to Mary Vari for her tireless efforts and dedication to growing IWEG’s presence in Canada. And the future is in good hands with Paul Miles; his vision of IWEG’s future will stay the course.
The first school to offer WSET’s Diploma Program in Canada, IWEG’s impact on the wine industry cannot be underestimated. The rigorous program of study is a challenge to undertake and requires the school to further mentor its students toward successful completion with the role of Diploma Director. IWEG is very proud of the roster of WSET Diploma graduates, having participated in the professional development of a great many leaders of today’s vibrant wine industry.
It has been my great privilege to have experienced IWEG as a student, as a Board Member, as an Instructor, as Diploma Director and as Executive Director. Over the years, I have lived the many facets of this exemplary organization, and what a ride it has been. Happy Anniversary to the IWEG Drinks Academy!
For many years, the Board of Directors included the ‘who’s who’ of the wine industry, and this dedicated volunteer group of wine professionals laid the cornerstone for what was to become WSET’s first flag bearing school in Canada. Our thanks go out to them, for without their contribution, IWEG would not have begun this 40-year long journey.
The role of the Executive Director, required the adept handling of all day to day challenges on the front lines in what became an increasingly competitive environment. Maintaining the relationship with WSET and forging partnerships with various industry bodies, kudos go to Mary Vari for her tireless efforts and dedication to growing IWEG’s presence in Canada. And the future is in good hands with Paul Miles; his vision of IWEG’s future will stay the course.
The first school to offer WSET’s Diploma Program in Canada, IWEG’s impact on the wine industry cannot be underestimated. The rigorous program of study is a challenge to undertake and requires the school to further mentor its students toward successful completion with the role of Diploma Director. IWEG is very proud of the roster of WSET Diploma graduates, having participated in the professional development of a great many leaders of today’s vibrant wine industry.
It has been my great privilege to have experienced IWEG as a student, as a Board Member, as an Instructor, as Diploma Director and as Executive Director. Over the years, I have lived the many facets of this exemplary organization, and what a ride it has been. Happy Anniversary to the IWEG Drinks Academy!
BIRTHDAY WISHES FROM MARY VARI
I have often been thankful for the wisdom and foresight of the founders of IWEG. Their initial goal was two-fold:
1. To provide the highest quality education for professionals in the wine trade, and
2. To give private enthusiasts access to such learning. As a novice in the second category, II found IWEG to be a rare and unique opportunity.
It was immediately apparent that the coursework and dedicated instructors were well worth the 4 hour drive to and from class each week. I was impressed with the feeling of camaraderie and the efforts each instructor made to meet the needs and interests of the students. It seemed there was no end to the desire to “give back”, as graduating students came back as instructors, often volunteering countless hours to serve . At that time, IWEG offered exclusively the coursework of the Wine and Spirit Education Trust.
After completing the Diploma I enjoyed working at IWEG, handling registrations, exams, teaching and helping the program grow. Just as the original founders had made every effort to bring the best to our student body, IWEG’s current leadership and Board of Directors have greatly expanded course offerings to meet the growing needs of our professional and enthusiastic students.
My current work takes me to numerous WSET programs across North America. I always come away from these visits hoping these growing programs will someday enjoy a gracious and accommodating administrative staff, remarkable faculty, excellent students and collegial atmosphere such as we have at IWEG. For forty years, IWEG has grown to bring excellence in wine and spirit education to fulfill the growing interests of our students. May the next 40 years bring more of the same and wonderful adventures in learning! Happy 40th birthday, IWEG!
1. To provide the highest quality education for professionals in the wine trade, and
2. To give private enthusiasts access to such learning. As a novice in the second category, II found IWEG to be a rare and unique opportunity.
It was immediately apparent that the coursework and dedicated instructors were well worth the 4 hour drive to and from class each week. I was impressed with the feeling of camaraderie and the efforts each instructor made to meet the needs and interests of the students. It seemed there was no end to the desire to “give back”, as graduating students came back as instructors, often volunteering countless hours to serve . At that time, IWEG offered exclusively the coursework of the Wine and Spirit Education Trust.
After completing the Diploma I enjoyed working at IWEG, handling registrations, exams, teaching and helping the program grow. Just as the original founders had made every effort to bring the best to our student body, IWEG’s current leadership and Board of Directors have greatly expanded course offerings to meet the growing needs of our professional and enthusiastic students.
My current work takes me to numerous WSET programs across North America. I always come away from these visits hoping these growing programs will someday enjoy a gracious and accommodating administrative staff, remarkable faculty, excellent students and collegial atmosphere such as we have at IWEG. For forty years, IWEG has grown to bring excellence in wine and spirit education to fulfill the growing interests of our students. May the next 40 years bring more of the same and wonderful adventures in learning! Happy 40th birthday, IWEG!
IWEG SIGNATURE SERIES: BOURGOGNE VILLAGES
Explore, taste and savour the wines of Bourgogne. Delve deeper into the distinct styles of Bourgogne's Village AOCs. Supported by the Bureau Interprofessionnel des Vins de Bourgogne (BIVB), Eugene Mlynczyk MW, DipWSET will guide you on a tour of Bourgogne's premium villages, a chance to explore the terroir and winery influences the wine world holds in such revered esteem. A must for Bourgogne lovers! Featuring all new wines that were not tasted in the November Bourgogne masterclass, including:
- Saint Veran
- Chablis 1er Cru
- Pernand Vergelesses 1er Cru
- Aloxe Corton
- Marsannay
- Santenay 1er Cru
- Mercurey 1er Cru
This opportunity is not to be missed!
Bourgogne Villages
Date: Tuesday, May 9th @ 7PM
Location: IWEG Drinks Academy
Register Now!
Bourgogne Villages
Date: Tuesday, May 9th @ 7PM
Location: IWEG Drinks Academy
Register Now!
IWEG SIGNATURE SERIES: PRIORAT
From the high hillside vineyards of Priorat in north east Spain come some of the world’s finest old vine Garnacha (Grenache), and Cariñena, grown on theirspecialty soils llicorella. The combination of soils, old vines, quality minded producers, and elevation give very low yielding vines with concentration, power and structure, not to mention balance and mystique. Join us as Bruce Wallner, Master Sommelier, founder of The Sommelier Factory takes us through an exploration of this fascinating region and its wines!
Priorat
Date: Thursday May 25th @ 7PM
Location: IWEG Drinks Academy
Register Now!
Priorat
Date: Thursday May 25th @ 7PM
Location: IWEG Drinks Academy
Register Now!
WSET LEVEL 4 DIPLOMA IN WINES AND SPIRITS
The WSET Level 4 Diploma in Wines and Spirits qualification is considered by many in the global wine industry as the premium all round wine and spirit qualification. It is designed to give specialist knowledge of the principal wines and spirits of the world combined with commercial factors and a thorough system for the professional evaluation of wines and spirits.
Diploma Level graduates will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to underpin the job requirements in buying and merchandising roles such as Category Manager, Product Managerand Product Consultant, in hospitality and service roles such as Beverage Director, Wine Consultant and Hospitality Manager, and in sales and marketing roles such as a Regional Manager, District Manager and Brand Manager.
The Diploma is viewed universally as the stepping-stone to the Master of Wine program.
Join us for a Diploma information session on Wednesday, May 31, 7 - 8PM. This is an oppourtunity to meet our Diploma coordinators Peter Wearing, DipWSET and Eugene Mlynczyk, DipWSET, MW. Ask questions and experiment with the WSET Level 4 Systematic Approach to Tasting. RSVP: admin@iweg.org
IWEG has refreshed and expanded our in-class course delivery for the WSET Level 4 Diploma in Wines and Spirits. The new format allows for:
Diploma Level graduates will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to underpin the job requirements in buying and merchandising roles such as Category Manager, Product Managerand Product Consultant, in hospitality and service roles such as Beverage Director, Wine Consultant and Hospitality Manager, and in sales and marketing roles such as a Regional Manager, District Manager and Brand Manager.
The Diploma is viewed universally as the stepping-stone to the Master of Wine program.
Join us for a Diploma information session on Wednesday, May 31, 7 - 8PM. This is an oppourtunity to meet our Diploma coordinators Peter Wearing, DipWSET and Eugene Mlynczyk, DipWSET, MW. Ask questions and experiment with the WSET Level 4 Systematic Approach to Tasting. RSVP: admin@iweg.org
IWEG has refreshed and expanded our in-class course delivery for the WSET Level 4 Diploma in Wines and Spirits. The new format allows for:
- Extra classes as part of the course delivery
- More study skills and exam skill sessions built into the course delivery
- Convenient, easier to follow course schedule, centred on three semesters: Foundation, Special Topics Focus and Skill Development and Light Wines Of The World
- Access to individual one-one one student support from IWEG’s Diploma Programme Coordinators
- Refreshed line-up of specialist IWEG instructors, all of whom are WSET Certified Educators (have undergone teacher training) as well as subject matter experts
Our Diploma alumni have reported that the successful completion of the Diploma has been a “game-changer” and allowed them to progress significantly in their careers within the Drinks and Hospitality industry.
Program Details:
1) Foundation: July 2017 - September 2017
LAUNCH - 19 July 2017
WINE PRODUCTION (WSET Unit 2) - August 2017
1) Foundation: July 2017 - September 2017
LAUNCH - 19 July 2017
WINE PRODUCTION (WSET Unit 2) - August 2017
- Weekend in Niagara
- Viticulture, vinification, maturation, treatments and packaging
THE GLOBAL BUSINESS OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES (WSET Unit 1) - September 2017
- Dynamics of the global market for alcoholic beverages, local market and marketing of alcoholic beverages
2) Special Topic Focus & Skill Development: October 2017 - June 2018
SPARKLING WINES OF THE WORLD (WSET Unit 5) - October 2017
SPARKLING WINES OF THE WORLD (WSET Unit 5) - October 2017
- Methods of production, types and styles of sparkling wines
COURSEWORK ASSIGNMENT (WSET Unit 1 CWA) - November 2017
- Written report on a subject set by the examiners (2500-3000 words)
SPIRITS OF THE WORLD (WSET Unit 4) - January 2018
- Methods of production, types and styles of spirits
FORTIFIED WINES OF THE WORLD (WSET Unit 6) - April 2018
- Methods of production, types and styles of fortified wines
CASE STUDY EXAM (WSET Unit 1 Case Study Exam) - June 2018
- Closed-book theory paper in exam format, subject published one month before exam
SKILL DEVELOPMENT
- Writing skills, tasting practice, creating a study plan
3) Light Wines of the World: September 2018 - June 2019
LIGHT WINES OF THE WORLD (WSET Unit 3) - September 2018 - June 2019
LIGHT WINES OF THE WORLD (WSET Unit 3) - September 2018 - June 2019
- Weekly classes focus on important wine regions of the old and new world, theory and tasting practice
If you have completed your WSET Level 3 Award in Wines or are a graduate of CAPS & ISG and are looking to continue with your wine education, the WSET Level 4 Diploma could be for you!
WSET DIPLOMA COORDINATORS
Eugene Mlynczyk MW, DipWSET has been in love with wine since his college days in California. After returning home to Toronto in the early 1990s, he began to direct a portion of his modest earnings to local Niagara wines, further nurturing his oenophile passion. Eugene subscribes to the maxim “Carpe Diem” (meaning “sieze the day”), so he began to study wine and sought employment in the wine industry, which began 15 years ago and continues to this day. Another of Eugene’s central beliefs is that no one should ever stop learning, so after completing all WSET course levels through Diploma, Eugene enrolled in the Master of Wine program in 2011. Eugene was thrilled to complete all the program requirements in 2015 and be awarded the “MW” designation: hooray! Besides wine, Eugene focuses on family when not also running in the woods competing in his favourite sport, orienteering.
Peter Wearing DipWSET became interested in wine many years ago when he discovered that wine is just as much about the people and their story as the product itself. This interest led to his co-founding of The Small Winemakers Collection, an importing agency based in Toronto. What started as a way to write-off travel turned into a full-time occupation and he eventually quit his day job at the turn of the millennium. Today, he is managing director of the company, which has 15 employees. His particular area of interest is in French and Italian wines. He regularly travels to Europe and makes sure to visit Burgundy every year. Since completing the WSET Diploma, Peter has found a new outlet for his enthusiasm as an instructor. He enjoys sharing his experience in the industry and WSET with eager students.
TESTIMONIALS
"The Diploma was instrumental in obtaining my position as a Sommelier at Langdon Hall. Working with a wine program of this caliber and being able to provide our guests with in depth knowledge of our fine wine selection is something that came from the Diploma level of study." - Brie Dema, Sommelier at George Restaurant
"The WSET Diploma has been an amazing help to my career. It has given me an incredible base of wine knowledge and wine business acumen that has enabled me to feel comfortable and confident in any situation. The wine tasting and theory has helped me understand each wine I am buying and selling in a global context and be able to evaluate it quickly and accurately. This has been invaluable! I also met some amazing wine professionals along the way, both classmates and teachers. It has been hard to complete, but very rewarding. I am not one for pins, but I will definitely keep this one in a special place." - Nicole Campbell, Portfolio Ambassador at Lifford Wines & Spirits
"There is always so much to learn about the constantly evolving beverage alcohol industry and the diploma program has helped me better understand the global industry and allows me to engage in more informed discussions with our trade partners that include Suppliers and their Ontario agents. The refinement and sharpening of my product knowledge has also helped me when making selections and in keeping up with the trends that define our business." - Ann Patel, Product Manager, Vintages New World Wines and Spirits at the LCBO
WSET DIPLOMA COORDINATORS
Eugene Mlynczyk MW, DipWSET has been in love with wine since his college days in California. After returning home to Toronto in the early 1990s, he began to direct a portion of his modest earnings to local Niagara wines, further nurturing his oenophile passion. Eugene subscribes to the maxim “Carpe Diem” (meaning “sieze the day”), so he began to study wine and sought employment in the wine industry, which began 15 years ago and continues to this day. Another of Eugene’s central beliefs is that no one should ever stop learning, so after completing all WSET course levels through Diploma, Eugene enrolled in the Master of Wine program in 2011. Eugene was thrilled to complete all the program requirements in 2015 and be awarded the “MW” designation: hooray! Besides wine, Eugene focuses on family when not also running in the woods competing in his favourite sport, orienteering.
Peter Wearing DipWSET became interested in wine many years ago when he discovered that wine is just as much about the people and their story as the product itself. This interest led to his co-founding of The Small Winemakers Collection, an importing agency based in Toronto. What started as a way to write-off travel turned into a full-time occupation and he eventually quit his day job at the turn of the millennium. Today, he is managing director of the company, which has 15 employees. His particular area of interest is in French and Italian wines. He regularly travels to Europe and makes sure to visit Burgundy every year. Since completing the WSET Diploma, Peter has found a new outlet for his enthusiasm as an instructor. He enjoys sharing his experience in the industry and WSET with eager students.
TESTIMONIALS
"The Diploma was instrumental in obtaining my position as a Sommelier at Langdon Hall. Working with a wine program of this caliber and being able to provide our guests with in depth knowledge of our fine wine selection is something that came from the Diploma level of study." - Brie Dema, Sommelier at George Restaurant
"The WSET Diploma has been an amazing help to my career. It has given me an incredible base of wine knowledge and wine business acumen that has enabled me to feel comfortable and confident in any situation. The wine tasting and theory has helped me understand each wine I am buying and selling in a global context and be able to evaluate it quickly and accurately. This has been invaluable! I also met some amazing wine professionals along the way, both classmates and teachers. It has been hard to complete, but very rewarding. I am not one for pins, but I will definitely keep this one in a special place." - Nicole Campbell, Portfolio Ambassador at Lifford Wines & Spirits
"There is always so much to learn about the constantly evolving beverage alcohol industry and the diploma program has helped me better understand the global industry and allows me to engage in more informed discussions with our trade partners that include Suppliers and their Ontario agents. The refinement and sharpening of my product knowledge has also helped me when making selections and in keeping up with the trends that define our business." - Ann Patel, Product Manager, Vintages New World Wines and Spirits at the LCBO
ITALIAN WINE SCHOLAR
The Italian Wine Scholar is an Italian wine course designed to provide committed students of wine with the most advanced and comprehensive specialization study program on Italian wine bar none!
IWEG is one of the first international schools to offer the Italian Wine Scholar program, both Units 1 and 2.
Our Italian Wine Scholar instructors Nancy Reynolds and Rose-Anne St. Jean are the top globally ranked for academic achievement with the Wine Scholar Guild.
The top performing student in the new Italian Wine Scholar overall - Unit 1 and Unit 2 - will receive a study trip scholarship from the Italian Trade Commission in Canada to a consorzio (specific wine region) in Italy!
Italian Wine Scholar - Unit 2
Date: Tuesdays, October 3rd - November 14th @ 7PM
Location: IWEG Drinks Academy
Register Now!
IWEG is one of the first international schools to offer the Italian Wine Scholar program, both Units 1 and 2.
Our Italian Wine Scholar instructors Nancy Reynolds and Rose-Anne St. Jean are the top globally ranked for academic achievement with the Wine Scholar Guild.
The top performing student in the new Italian Wine Scholar overall - Unit 1 and Unit 2 - will receive a study trip scholarship from the Italian Trade Commission in Canada to a consorzio (specific wine region) in Italy!
Italian Wine Scholar - Unit 2
Date: Tuesdays, October 3rd - November 14th @ 7PM
Location: IWEG Drinks Academy
Register Now!
WINES OF PORTUGAL ACADEMY INITIATION LEVEL 1
Portugal has a wealth of local grape varieties, which produce wines in a range of styles. The multitude of wine-growing regions has been undergoing a series of changes over the past decades, and there has been an overall increase in the quality of the wines produced. Vineyard restructuring and new wineries fully equipped with the most modern equipment: destemmers and crushers, cooling systems, different types of cap management ( including robotic lagares) have launched Portugal and its winemakers into the twenty-first century with the potential for world recognition.
ViniPortugal brings you the Wines of Portugal Academy Certified Training Program to IWEG. The Initiation Level will be offered at IWEG for the first time this summer. Students successful in the course will receive a professional accreditation from the Wines of Portugal Academy. Explore the history, taste a variety of wine styles, and further your knowledge of the native grape varietals of this great winemaking region!
The course will be taught by Sofia Salvador, official educator from the Wines of Portugal Academy. This one-day course is ideal for trade professionalsseeking professional accreditation and Portuguese wine enthusiasts!
Wines of Portugal Academy Initiation Level 1
Date: Saturday, June 3rd @ 1PM - 5PM
Location: IWEG Drinks Academy
Register Now!
ViniPortugal brings you the Wines of Portugal Academy Certified Training Program to IWEG. The Initiation Level will be offered at IWEG for the first time this summer. Students successful in the course will receive a professional accreditation from the Wines of Portugal Academy. Explore the history, taste a variety of wine styles, and further your knowledge of the native grape varietals of this great winemaking region!
The course will be taught by Sofia Salvador, official educator from the Wines of Portugal Academy. This one-day course is ideal for trade professionalsseeking professional accreditation and Portuguese wine enthusiasts!
Wines of Portugal Academy Initiation Level 1
Date: Saturday, June 3rd @ 1PM - 5PM
Location: IWEG Drinks Academy
Register Now!
WSET LEVEL 1 AWARD IN SPIRITS
Join IWEG's Certified Specialist of Spirits and our local cocktail expert to expand your spirits knowledge! This brand new one-day course will be led by IWEG's Education Director and spirits expert Julia Rogers DipWSET, with an interactive cocktail lessonby Victoria Walsh, co-author of A Field Guide to Canadian Cocktails!
This course is ideal for someone curious about spirits and cocktails, who has little experience and no formal knowledge of the subject. Upon successful completion you will receive a WSET certificate and pin.
Through a tutored tasting of premium spirits and cocktails, and a range of fun and educational activities, you will learn:
This course is ideal for someone curious about spirits and cocktails, who has little experience and no formal knowledge of the subject. Upon successful completion you will receive a WSET certificate and pin.
Through a tutored tasting of premium spirits and cocktails, and a range of fun and educational activities, you will learn:
- What to expect from the different spirits categories
- Key facts about spirit production
- How to describe the styles and flavours of different spirits
- What the basic tools, glassware and ingredients are for famous cocktails and mixed drinks
- How to use basic cocktail theory to develop your own specialty drinks
WSET Level 1 Award in Spirits
Date: Saturday, May 6th @ 9:30AM - 4:30PM
Location: IWEG Drinks Academy
Register Now!
Date: Saturday, May 6th @ 9:30AM - 4:30PM
Location: IWEG Drinks Academy
Register Now!
WSET LEVEL 2 AWARD IN WINES AND SPIRITS
Ideal for the industry novice and the trade professional, the WSET Level 2 Award in Wines and Spirits provides fundamental product knowledge and lays the foundation for the Systematic Approach to Tasting.
You will:
You will:
- learn how to taste professionally and make quality assessments
- taste a minimum of 24 wines that illustrate typicity
- learn about the factors that impact the style and quality of wines
- learn about key grape varietals and wine regions across the globe
- learn about still wines, sparkling wines, sweet wines, fortified wines and spirits
- obtain a globally recognized professional accreditation which is regarded as a foundation and required level of study for the further pursuit of wine education and career enhancement in the wine and spirits industry
WSET Level 2 Award in Wine and Spirits - 3 DAYS!
Date: Monday June 12th, 19th, and 26th @ 9:30 AM - 4:30PM
Location: IWEG Drinks Academy
Register Now!
WSET Level 2 Award in Wine and Spirits - @ Wine Academy
Date: Tuesdays June 20th - July 25th @ 6:30 PM
Location: Wine Academy
Register Now!
Date: Monday June 12th, 19th, and 26th @ 9:30 AM - 4:30PM
Location: IWEG Drinks Academy
Register Now!
WSET Level 2 Award in Wine and Spirits - @ Wine Academy
Date: Tuesdays June 20th - July 25th @ 6:30 PM
Location: Wine Academy
Register Now!
WSET LEVEL 1 AWARD IN SAKE
WSET Level 1 Award in Sake offers a hands-on introduction to the world of sake. You will explore the main styles and types of sake through sight, smell and taste to develop an understanding of the key factors affecting flavours and aromas.
IWEG is the only Approved Programme Provider in Eastern Canada awarded the privilege to host the WSET Level 1 Award in Sake. We are delighted to include this course to our portfolio.
What you will learn:
The upcoming WSET Level 1 Award in Sake will be taught by top sake sommelier Michael Tremblay and WSET Global's Sake Samurai Antony Moss MW, DipWSET!
Register now for a complimentary ticket to Canada’s biggest sake festival Kampai on June 1st!
IWEG is the only Approved Programme Provider in Eastern Canada awarded the privilege to host the WSET Level 1 Award in Sake. We are delighted to include this course to our portfolio.
What you will learn:
- The basic principles of sake production
- The main types and styles of sake
- How to serve sake
- Factors affecting the flavour of sake
- How to describe sakes using the WSET Level 1 Systematic Approach to Tasting Sake (SAT)
- Experiment with food and sake interaction and pairing
The upcoming WSET Level 1 Award in Sake will be taught by top sake sommelier Michael Tremblay and WSET Global's Sake Samurai Antony Moss MW, DipWSET!
Register now for a complimentary ticket to Canada’s biggest sake festival Kampai on June 1st!
WSET Level 1 Award in Sake
Date: Saturday, June 3rd
Time: 9:30AM- 5:30PM
Location: IWEG Drinks Academy
Register Now!
2016 -17 SIGNATURE SERIES
Continue your education, develop your tasting skills, and network in the industry at our upcoming Signature Series events!
“IWEG’s signature series offers a superb opportunity to dive deeply into specific areas, illustrated by top quality wines. They should be part of everyone’s ongoing education." John Szabo MS, DipWSET @johnszabo
May 9th: Bourgogne Villages
Explore, taste and savour the wines of Bourgogne. Delve deeper into the distinct styles of Bourgogne's Village AOCs. Supported by the Bureau Interprofessionnel des Vins de Bourgogne (BIVB), Eugene Mlynczyk MW, DipWSET will guide you on a tour of Bourgogne's premium villages, a chance to explore the terroir and winery influences the wine world holds in such revered esteem. A must for Bourgogne lovers! Featuring all new wines that were not tasted in the November Bourgogne masterclass. Sign up now!
May 25th: Priorat presented by Bruce Wallner, MS
From the high hillside vineyards of Priorat in north east Spain come some of the world’s finest old vine Garnacha (Grenache), and Cariñena, grown on their specialty soils llicorella. The combination of soils, old vines, quality minded producers, and elevation give very low yielding vines with concentration, power and structure, not to mention balance and mystique. Join us asBruce Wallner, Master Sommelier, founder of The Sommelier Factory takes us through an exploration of this fascinating region and its wines! Sign up now!
Dates and times are subject to change.
“IWEG’s signature series offers a superb opportunity to dive deeply into specific areas, illustrated by top quality wines. They should be part of everyone’s ongoing education." John Szabo MS, DipWSET @johnszabo
May 9th: Bourgogne Villages
Explore, taste and savour the wines of Bourgogne. Delve deeper into the distinct styles of Bourgogne's Village AOCs. Supported by the Bureau Interprofessionnel des Vins de Bourgogne (BIVB), Eugene Mlynczyk MW, DipWSET will guide you on a tour of Bourgogne's premium villages, a chance to explore the terroir and winery influences the wine world holds in such revered esteem. A must for Bourgogne lovers! Featuring all new wines that were not tasted in the November Bourgogne masterclass. Sign up now!
May 25th: Priorat presented by Bruce Wallner, MS
From the high hillside vineyards of Priorat in north east Spain come some of the world’s finest old vine Garnacha (Grenache), and Cariñena, grown on their specialty soils llicorella. The combination of soils, old vines, quality minded producers, and elevation give very low yielding vines with concentration, power and structure, not to mention balance and mystique. Join us asBruce Wallner, Master Sommelier, founder of The Sommelier Factory takes us through an exploration of this fascinating region and its wines! Sign up now!
Dates and times are subject to change.
WSET LEVEL 1 AWARD IN WINES + so much more
Our unique WSET Level 1 Award in Wines is a perfect starting point for structured wine studies for the wine enthusiast. Students will complete the requirements of the WSET Level 1 Award in Wines and also discover the key elements of food and wine taste interactions such as sweetness, acidity and saltiness in food.
Students will have the opportunity to experience key pairing principles through 5 gourmet tastings and discuss pairing wines with dishes from non-European cuisines, as well as menu design.
Students will meet WSET Level 1 learning objectives and leave with practical knowledge to put to use when selecting or recommending wines for diverse dining occasions.
WSET Level 1 Award in Wines + so much more
Date: Monday, May 27th @ 9:30AM - 5:30PM
Location: IWEG Drinks Academy
Register Now!
Students will have the opportunity to experience key pairing principles through 5 gourmet tastings and discuss pairing wines with dishes from non-European cuisines, as well as menu design.
Students will meet WSET Level 1 learning objectives and leave with practical knowledge to put to use when selecting or recommending wines for diverse dining occasions.
WSET Level 1 Award in Wines + so much more
Date: Monday, May 27th @ 9:30AM - 5:30PM
Location: IWEG Drinks Academy
Register Now!
IMPORTING WINE, BEER, & SPIRITS FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT
Join Charles Steven Trenholme for the day-long seminar Importing for Wine, Beer & Spirits For Pleasure & Profit, which provides insights into the dynamics of importing wine, craft beers & spirits into Canada. Charles Steven brings to the seminar 35+ years of experience working in various capacities including managing national sales agency, brand management, sommelier and as educators.
Charles Steven knows first-hand that there are still hundreds of suppliers around the world actively looking for importers to represent them in Canada, providing the opportunity to develop a full or part-time career in this dynamic industry. There are also sales and brand ambassador positions available for those with certified sommelier training.
“As Canadians’ thirst for more diversity in the alcoholic beverages that they consume, this presents a very real opportunity for new agents & importers,” states alcoholic beverage industry expert Charles Steven Trenholme.
Date: Saturday, June 3rd
Time: 9:30PM - 4:30PM
Location: Novotel Toronto Centre - 45 The Esplanade Alsace Room 2nd Floor , Toronto, ON
Cost: IWEG instructors, graduates and students are invited to use the promotional code IWEG to receive a 10% discount on the seminar fee of $325.
Register here!
Charles Steven knows first-hand that there are still hundreds of suppliers around the world actively looking for importers to represent them in Canada, providing the opportunity to develop a full or part-time career in this dynamic industry. There are also sales and brand ambassador positions available for those with certified sommelier training.
“As Canadians’ thirst for more diversity in the alcoholic beverages that they consume, this presents a very real opportunity for new agents & importers,” states alcoholic beverage industry expert Charles Steven Trenholme.
Date: Saturday, June 3rd
Time: 9:30PM - 4:30PM
Location: Novotel Toronto Centre - 45 The Esplanade Alsace Room 2nd Floor , Toronto, ON
Cost: IWEG instructors, graduates and students are invited to use the promotional code IWEG to receive a 10% discount on the seminar fee of $325.
Register here!
STUDENT CORNER
May Social Media Contest Winner
Congratulations to Hana Kim for winning this month's social media contest! Here is Hana's winning post from her final WSET Level 3 Award in Wines class.
Social Media Contest
We encourage you to share any photos, videos or messages about your IWEG experience in and out of the classroom on your social media! Tag us in your next social media post for a chance to win tickets to upcoming tastings and other special prizes. Each post will be entered into a monthly draw. Winners will be notified and featured in our monthly newsletters.
Be sure to include one of our social media handles in your post:
IWEG's Social Media handles:
Twitter: IWEG_Canada
Facebook: IWEG Drinks Academy
Instagram: IWEG_Canada
Hashtags: #iweg and #iweg40
Congratulations to Hana Kim for winning this month's social media contest! Here is Hana's winning post from her final WSET Level 3 Award in Wines class.
Social Media Contest
We encourage you to share any photos, videos or messages about your IWEG experience in and out of the classroom on your social media! Tag us in your next social media post for a chance to win tickets to upcoming tastings and other special prizes. Each post will be entered into a monthly draw. Winners will be notified and featured in our monthly newsletters.
Be sure to include one of our social media handles in your post:
IWEG's Social Media handles:
Twitter: IWEG_Canada
Facebook: IWEG Drinks Academy
Instagram: IWEG_Canada
Hashtags: #iweg and #iweg40
DESCORCHADOS TORONTO
Descorchados is the leading wine guide to South American wines featuring Argentina, Brazil, Chile and Uruguay.
If you are interested in volunteering at the event, contact Andréa at descorchadoscanada@gmail.com
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Field Sales Associate at Mark Anthony Wine & Spirits - find out more here!
Sales Representative at All The Right Grapes Inc. - find out more here!
Tasting Room Consultant & Sommelier at Domaine Queylus (French required) - find out more here!
Tasting Room Consultant & Sommelier at Domaine Queylus (Cantonese required) - find out more here!
Looking to post a career opportunity at your company? Please contact Adelaide Smith for assistance.
INDUSTRY NEWS AND EVENTS
News
Did the vikings produce wine? - The Drinks Business (05/02/2017)
Wine: Haunted by memories of southwest France - Montreal Gazette (04/28/2017)
Does the gin category need tighter definitions? - The Spirits Business (04/28/2017)
Events
Tuesday, May 9th @ IWEG Drinks Academy: Bourgogne Villages at 7PM. $95. Explore, taste and savour the wines of Bourgogne. Delve deeper into the distinct styles of Bourgogne's Village AOCs. Supported by theBureau Interprofessionnel des Vins de Bourgogne (BIVB), Eugene Mlynczyk MW, DipWSET will guide you on a tour of Bourgogne's premium villages, a chance to explore the terroir and winery influences the wine world holds in such revered esteem. A must for Bourgogne lovers! Featuring all new wines that were not tasted in the November Bourgogne masterclass. Sign up now!
Tuesday, May 25th @ IWEG Drinks Academy: Priorat presented by Bruce Wallner, MS at 7PM. $95. From the high hillside vineyards of Priorat in north east Spain come some of the world’s finest old vine Garnacha (Grenache), and Cariñena, grown on their specialty soils llicorella. The combination of soils, old vines, quality minded producers, and elevation give very low yielding vines with concentration, power and structure, not to mention balance and mystique. Join us as Bruce Wallner, Master Sommelier, founder of The Sommelier Factory takes us through an exploration of this fascinating region and its wines! Sign up now!
Do you have an event you'd like to share with the IWEG community? Please send all event details to marketing@iweg.org.
FEATURED PARTNERS
Thank you to our partners for supporting IWEG's educational programming. For a full list of our partners, visit here.
"When people tell me they want to get into the wine trade,or simply advance their wine knowledge for their personal enjoyment,I always draw their attention to the WSET courses" - Jancis Robinson, Master of Wine