A Certified Sommelier Writes

I have just returned from taking the level 1 Immersion Course for Sommelier Certification offered at Wente Vineyards in California by the U. S. Sommelier Association. What an experience! After weeks of study, previewing course materials, and reading a wonderful wine course by Kevin Zraly, I went to California for the course feeling pretty well prepared for the challenge.

In 5 1/2 days, however, I learned an amazing amount of additional information and tasted an incredible array of wines from all over the world. It's often said, "I now know enough to know how much I have yet to learn." It's true! The rich history of wine has so many dimensions -- from viticulture to vinification to terroir to aging -- that it is wonderfully exhausting to delve into the great wines of the world. I tasted wines from France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Portugal, South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, Chile, Argentina, and, of course, the United States -- many varietals, various processings, difference ages. Fascinating! I have learned so much! And met others who are passionate about wine. Life is too short to drink bad wine.

I am proud to say I passed the exam -- both written and blind tasting -- and now begin a new era in my blogging career -- as a Certified Sommelier. I hope to write even more valuable entries going forward -- And, yes, I still have a passion for our Midwest Wines!