banville & jones wine institute
What do I need to know to start the wine programs? Entry-level courses require no prior wine knowledge. However, all participants must be older than 18 years of age.
Banville Jones Wine Co. fields many questions regarding our wine appreciation and education programs. These are the answers to our most frequently asked questions.
FAQ
What are the differences among the Basics, ISG and the WSET programs? Basics is a lively set of introductory classes created and delivered by Banville & Jones education specialists. This two-level program is highly informative and worry-free, as it does not include examinations.
ISG( International Sommelier Guild) and WSET( Wine and Spirits Education Trust) programs are designed and endorsed by highly regarded international organizations. Graduates attain certification upon successful completion of exams at each level. Although there is broad overlap in the material presented, particularly with regards to wine essentials, the ISG courses become increasingly serviceand hospitality-oriented as one moves through the program, whereas the WSET courses become increasingly wine-trade oriented. In terms of coverage, ISG Levels 1 and 2 are similar to WSET Intermediate and Advanced, respectively. Banville & Jones is the exclusive provider for both programs in Manitoba.
What is the difference between“ hospitality” and“ wine trade”? Hospitality refers to the hotel-restaurant industry and includes wine-related jobs with direct guest interaction such as waiters, sommeliers, and management positions. Wine trade refers to the business of wine and includes activities related to the distribution, marketing, and sales of wines, whether from producer, wholesaler, or retailer. As a simple summary, the wine trade supplies wines to the hospitality industry.
Where should I start? If you simply want to learn some basics or discover if further wine study is appealing, the aptly named Basics program is for you. If you want to pursue wine-related work, explore wines to a greater depth, or if you thrive on the structure of a formalized program complete with examinations, then choose ISG Level 1 or WSET Intermediate. If you want immediate gratification and accreditation for a first job in a restaurant or wine shop, choose WSET Fundamentals.
What are the advantages of certification? Certification proves that you meet a recognized standard and may give you a foot in the door for job interviews and increase your job mobility. In addition, advancement within each program requires successful completion of the preliminary levels.
Can I do all levels of ISG and WSET at Banville & Jones? We offer all levels of ISG, including the Sommelier Diploma Program. We offer three levels of WSET— Fundamentals, Intermediate, and Advanced.
Are credits transferrable between the ISG and WSET? Not easily, although WSET will consider requests for registration based on other programs. ISG offers the opportunity to challenge exams, but each level must be passed in order to advance.
Is it possible to do any of the programs by correspondence / distance learning? WSET has excellent resource and support materials for distance study. ISG does not currently offer programs through distance learning.
How can I find out more about the wine programs at Banville & Jones? Please visit www. banvilleandjones. com and click the“ Wine Education” tab or email Garry Hewitt at gary @ banvilleandjones. com.
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