The Court of Master SommeliersSommelier · StudyBeta
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Rhône Valley

What the Court’s Examination Syllabus 2026/2027 lists for Rhône Valley, level by level.

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Candidates should have an increasing depth of knowledge of the subject matter as they progress to each level of qualification.

Introductory Certificate

  1. Climatic influences.
  2. Districts & sub districts of the region.
  3. Principal grape varietals & wines produced from them.
  4. Blends of grapes South Rhône.
  5. Styles of wine.
  6. Principal AOP's.
  7. Labelling Terms.
  8. VDN & VDL wine production.

Certified Sommelier

  1. Principal estates in Châteauneuf du Pape.
  2. VDL & VDN wines produced in region & grapes used.
  3. AOP's of S Rhône varietals & styles.
  4. Principal sites in North Rhône. (Hermitage, Côte Rotie)

Advanced Certificate

  1. Climatic influences — Mistral.
  2. Côtes du Rhône village names.
  3. Permitted Grape blends for principal AC's.
  4. Smaller Rhône AC's. e.g. Côtes de Tricastin, Côtes de Luberon etc.
  5. Characteristics of the wines.
  6. Cask sizes and ageing.
  7. Notable producers and sites.

MS Diploma

  1. Soil types throughout region.
  2. Effects of Geographical features — i.e.: Alps, Dents du Montmirail.
  3. Climats of the Rhône.
  4. Principal producers and wines.
  5. Vintages — Characteristics.
  6. Latest developments & updates.
In the course bookRhône ValleyChapter 3 · Wine Regions of the WorldCome back to sharpen: terms and pronunciation are the quickest things to lose.