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  1. Programs
  3. Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW)

Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW)

Society of Wine Educators

Certification

Become a contributor for free to openly demonstrate student outcomes, industry alignment & eligibility criteria.

The Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW) Exam is a rigorous exam, which tests a candidate’s wine knowledge and mastery of key elements within the worlds of viticulture and wine production.

Format

Hybrid

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Program Pathways

Credentials this program stacks toward

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Program Details

Detailed information about this program

The Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW) Exam is a rigorous exam, which tests a candidate’s wine knowledge and mastery of key elements within the worlds of viticulture and wine production. This certification is widely recognized and regarded by the international wine industry. The CSW Exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions, with all question content drawn exclusively from the CSW Study Guide. Candidates are provided with one (1) hour in which to complete the exam. Candidates will purchase the CSW Exam through the SWE Catalog+Store. The Exam Authorization does not include any study materials. The 2026 CSW Study Guide may be purchased as a hard copy through Amazon. The 2026 CSW Study Guide is available as an eBook on Amazon, and is available as an eBook on Apple Books. The 2025 CSW Study Guide may be purchased as a hard copy through Amazon. The 2025 CSW Study Guide is available as an eBook on Amazon and as an eBook on Apple Books. Testing Locations (Schedule Online or In-Person): CSW exams are available online or in-person at Pearson Vue Testing centers. Candidates will be sent an authorization code after purchasing the exam credit on the SWE website. Candidates will then be able to schedule their exam for their preferred date and time either through Pearson Vue’s network of testing centers or at home online with a computer. Pearson VUE Testing center locations are in almost every major city in the United States and available worldwide. Exam registrations are good for one full year from the date of purchase. Candidate names must match their government issued ID. CSW Exam Availability: 2026 Study Guide: The CSW exam based on the 2026 edition of the Study Guide will be available at Pearson Vue Testing Centers through December 30, 2028. 2025 Study Guide: The CSW exam based on the 2025 edition of the Study Guide will be available at Pearson Vue Testing Centers through December 30, 2027. 2024 Study Guide: The CSW exam based on the 2024 edition of the Study Guide will be available at Pearson Vue Testing Centers through December 30, 2026. Specific topics tested include: Physiology of Taste, Wine Composition & Chemistry; Faults; Viticulture & Enology; Labels, Laws & Wine Regions; The U.S. Wine Industry; Wine’s Contribution to Health; Wine Etiquette & Service; Food & Wine Pairing; and Responsible Beverage Alcohol Service.

Requirements

What you need to earn this credential

No requirements listed.

Financial Aid

Eligible funding programs

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Scholarships

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Locations

Where this program is offered

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Related Programs

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Skills & Competencies

Skills developed through this program

  • Apply physiology of taste to wine evaluation and service
  • Identify wine composition and chemistry in a beverage service context
  • Identify wine faults in a beverage service context
  • Apply viticulture and enology knowledge to wine selection and service
  • Interpret wine labels and laws across wine regions
  • Apply knowledge of the U.S. wine industry in a beverage service context
Career Pathways

Occupations this program prepares you for

  • Food Preparation and Serving Related Workers, All Other35-9099.00
  • Bartenders35-3011.00

What You'll Learn

AI-generated

Key competencies developed through this program

  • KnowledgeIdentify grape varieties and their characteristic flavor profiles across major wine-producing regions worldwide.
    Developing
  • KnowledgeExplain viticulture practices and their impact on wine quality including climate, soil, and vineyard management techniques.
    Developing
  • KnowledgeDescribe wine production methods and fermentation processes for different wine styles including still, sparkling, and fortified wines.
    Developing
  • KnowledgeCompare wine regions and their distinctive terroir characteristics using recognized wine classification systems and appellation laws.
    Developing
  • KnowledgeApply systematic wine tasting methodology to evaluate appearance, aroma, flavor, and structure of wines.
    Developing
  • KnowledgeAnalyze wine label information and terminology to determine origin, vintage, producer style, and quality indicators.
    Developing
  • KnowledgeDistinguish wine faults and quality defects through sensory evaluation and knowledge of common wine flaws.
    Developing
  • KnowledgeDemonstrate food and wine pairing principles by matching wine characteristics with cuisine types and flavor profiles.
    Developing
  • KnowledgeInterpret wine storage and service requirements including optimal temperature, glassware selection, and handling protocols.
    Developing
  • MindsetRespect diverse wine traditions and cultural heritage when discussing and presenting wines from different regions and styles.
    Developing
Student Outcomes

Performance metrics for this program

Completion Rate
Not reported
Placement Rate
Not reported