The Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS) is the world’s leading institution for sommelier training and certification, renowned for setting the global standard in beverage service and hospitality excellence. Established in 1977 following the first Master Sommelier examination in 1969, CMS has shaped generations of beverage professionals through its rigorous, hands-on approach to learning. As the official East African host for CMS Europe, HCC-EA delivers the Introductory and Certified Sommelier programmes. These qualifications focus on tasting, service, and floor performance at the highest professional level — enabling sommeliers to elevate guest experiences and meet the demands of top-tier hospitality environments.
The CMS Introductory Sommelier Course is an internationally recognised qualification designed for hospitality professionals with beverage experience; a minimum of WSET Level 2 or equivalent, along with prior industry exposure, is strongly recommended.
Delivered by a team of Master Sommeliers, this two-day course provides a foundation in the core competencies expected of sommeliers, including wine theory, deductive tasting, and service standards. Candidates explore grape varieties, key regions, food and wine pairing, and beverage service essentials. The multiple-choice examination takes place at the end of the second day. Upon successful completion, participants receive the CMS Introductory Sommelier certificate and lapel pin, and become eligible to sit the Certified Sommelier exam.
The CMS Certified Sommelier is the benchmark qualification for hospitality professionals and working sommeliers seeking international recognition of their service, tasting, and theoretical skills.
Open to candidates who have passed the CMS Introductory Sommelier Certificate within the last three years, the one-day assessment mirrors real-world responsibilities of a sommelier. It includes a blind tasting of two wines, a written theory exam, and a practical service evaluation. Successful candidates are awarded the CMS Certified Sommelier credential and lapel pin, and may progress to the Advanced Sommelier level.
Capital West Business Center, Nairobi, Kenya
A service-focused qualification for hospitality professionals with hospitality experience and minimum WSET Level 2 or equivalent. The two-da...
Capital West Business Center, Nairobi, Kenya
Capital West Business Center, Nairobi, Kenya
A professional qualification for hospitality staff who’ve passed the Introductory Certificate. The one-day exam assesses tasting, service, a...
Capital West Business Center, Nairobi, Kenya