The Court of Master Sommeliers, Americas will invite 10 female Advanced and Master Sommelier candidates for a two-day program that educates, inspires, and builds impactful connections between women. The focus will be not only on key elements of exam preparation, but also on discussions around career paths, business, and other topics.

The top 20 applicants will be invited to submit a video 75 seconds or less telling a story about a woman who inspired them or supported their journey in their career in wine and hospitality.

The Court was established in England in 1977 and sets the global standard of excellence for beverage service within the hospitality industry with integrity, exemplary knowledge, and humility. The first Master Sommelier Diploma Exam to be held in the United States was in 1987. The Americas chapter, which serves both North and South America, was established in 1987. Since then, 182 professionals have earned the title of Master Sommelier as part of the Americas chapter. The title Master Sommelier marks the highest recognition of wine and spirits knowledge, beverage service abilities, and professionalism in the hospitality trade. Education was then, and remains today, the Court’s charter.

Santa Barbara Vintners is a nonprofit 501(c)(6) organization founded in 1983 to protect and promote Santa Barbara County as a world-class wine and grape region.

*Travel expenses paid. Must be a Certified or Advanced Sommelier through the Court of Master Sommeliers to be eligible.

*Must be able to arrive on February 19th and depart on February 22nd.