Six new ways to become a wine, beer or spirits expert in 2020

Become a whisk(e)y master

In the US, the Council of Whiskey Masters recently launched a certification programme for whisk(e)y professionals, leading to the level one title of ‘certified Scotch professional’ or ‘Certified Bourbon Professional’. Candidates can also take on studies to become a Master of Scotch (SM) or Master of Whiskey (WM).

To prepare for the exam, students are given a 100-page study guide. The exam itself consists of 100 multiple-choice questions. To pass, students must score at least 80% or higher, after which they will receive a diploma and can add CSP or CBP letters after their names, making for a more studious CV.

Exam dates will be offered four times per year in local exam centres throughout the US, Europe and Canada. After the foundation level, prospective students can then enrol in another course to become a Certified Whiskey Specialist (CWS).

Later, they can take on studies for the Master of Scotch (SM, Level 3 – enrolment in 2020) and, in 2021, students will be able to enrol in the Master of Whiskey (WM, Level 4 – enrolment in 2021) qualification.