I Passed The Wine Location Specialist Certification Exam

I don't know why I do this to myself.  While at the Society of Wine Educators conference last summer I signed up to take the Center for Wine Origins Location Specialist Certification Exam.  This certificate program is a collaboration between Comité Interprofessionnel du Vin de Champagne (CIVC) and the Instituto dos Vinhos do Douro e Porto (IVDP).

I was originally scheduled to take the exam in September but with the launch of Happy Bitch Wines I deferred until the January exam.  Like I would have more time then - What was I thinking?  Then I thought it was only multiple choice test, and a week before the exam I realized there was a 500 word essay.  I would put my stress level on high.

I studied and it did pay off.  Passing is a getting 40 out of 50 correct on the multiple choice and at least 3 out of 5 on the essay.  I was hoping for the best because I usually don't tell anyone when I take an exam, but two people in the industry knew and I sure didn't want to be embarrassed.  I guess I don't give myself enough credit.

What does all this mean?  It means as a Wine Location Specialist I am accredited by the CIVC and the IVDP and certified to lead wine education seminars, tastings and dinners specific to Champagne and Port. I am also one of 125 people across the globe with this certification. 

So if you are in need of an educator, let me now! Champagne and Port, with wonderful pairings.  I'd be happy to work with you.