Have you ever thought about advancing your wine education? Maybe you work in a role where knowing more about wine would be useful. Or maybe you’re just interested in knowing more about the wine you drink.

Did you know that there’s a locally-based education program that can do just that?

Two years ago, Corvina Wine Company at 6038 W. Lincoln Ave. in West Allis, established the Midwest Wine Center, an approved program provider for the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET), a globally recognized wine and spirits certification founded over 50 years ago in London, England. 

Through the MWC – the only approved provider in Wisconsin – Corvina currently offers education toward the WSET Level One and Level Two Awards in Wine via both in-person and virtual classes taught by Corvina co-owner Frank LaSusa and employee Brandon Bowlin.

Bowlin is currently working on his WSET Diploma (Level Four and the highest designation offered. LaSusa has also earned his WSET Diploma as well as certification as a Tuscan Wine Master and Level One certification with the Court of Master Sommeliers.

X

About WSET

While there are various wine education programs, WSET, along with the Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS) certification, are two of the most widely recognized. The major distinction between the two is that the CMS is a self-guided certification program that focuses on hospitality and training as a sommelier, while the WSET is a more structured educational program with a broader educational scope. 

As far as Level One Award programming is concerned, it’s intended for both consumers or hospitality employees pursuing an interest or career in wine. The course offers a broad overview wine, including knowledge of growing regions and grape varietals. It requires six hours of course time and about three hours of outside study with classes held at Corvina Wine on Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.  The cost is $399.

The intermediate Level 2 Award is geared more heavily toward industry professionals and enthusiasts, as it explores the factors that impact style and quality. Students are introduced to a more systematic approach to wine tasting as well as pairing wine with food. The course also covers storage, service and a more in-depth study of of viticulture and terroir. The course requires 16 hours of course time provided in hybrid form through both online lectures and in-person coursework and tasting. The cost is $795.

LaSusa says that between 30 and 40 students have graduated from the Midwest Wine Center courses over the past two years, some pursuing the program for their own edification and others as a stepping stone in their careers. 

Courses are available year-round, with best availability in spring, fall and winter.  For more information or to enroll in upcoming courses, visit the Corvina Wine Company website.