The South African Sommeliers Association (SASA) is excited to announce the SASA Foundational Certificate, formerly named the Introductory Sommelier Certificate. The first SASA Foundational Certificate exam will take place on Monday, 17 March 2025 in both Cape Town and Johannesburg.
This certificate is your essential starting point for a successful sommelier career, providing the fundamental knowledge you'll build upon throughout your journey in wine.
In collaboration with our education partners, the Aperigon Youth Development Academy and the Sommeliers Academy, we've refined the program to better suit the needs of employers across South Africa. This move represents the evolution of sommelier education as the South African industry, and our Association, grows from strength to strength.
What is the SASA Foundational Certificate?
This certificate is the first step on the journey to becoming a certified and internationally recognised sommelier. It is suitable for waiters and tasting room attendants who have some experience, and are ready to take their skills to the next level.
While other wine courses can offer a thorough understanding of wines, regions and winemaking, the certificates offered by SASA focus on the professionalism and art of beverage service in a real-life restaurant setting.
"In a South African context, this certificate is a qualification that anyone with working experience in hospitality service can access. We believe that sommelier qualifications are a gateway to more work opportunities and personal development." - Spencer Fondaumiere, chairman of SASA
- Cape Town | 17 March 2025 | 10h00
- Johannesburg | 17 March 2025 | 10h00
What does this mean for previous graduates?
Your exam and certificate remain valid. While the exam evolves, we continue to recognise your hard work and achievements. You don't need to retake the exam. Please reach out to our team if you have any concerns.
Managers and owners who would like to up-skill their front-of-house staff are welcome to contact us, and we will connect you with an approved training partner in your region.
We look forward to welcoming candidates to this milestone exam.
Please email us at info@sommeliers.org.za for more information.