The global benchmark in wine excellence is returning. We are thrilled to announce that registration is officially open for the highly anticipated September 2026 Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS) programs in South Africa, hosted in Johannesburg. Whether you are looking to ground your global beverage knowledge or earn your professional credentials, this is your moment to learn from top-tier Master Sommeliers.
Please note that demand is exceptionally high and places are strictly limited. We operate on a first-come, first-registered basis, and seats are only secured upon receipt of full pre-payment. No spaces can be held.
Why this is unmissable
Three Master Sommeliers delivering live tuition: Rare, concentrated expertise you will not find in a standard course. Each session is taught and demonstrated by internationally‑accredited Masters, giving you direct access to tasting technique, service standards and exam‑grade tasting methodology.
A complete, professional learning environment: Classroom‑style training in with full AV, flipchart, screen and notepads included; conference parking and bottled water are provided; every practical and theory session is supported by professional equipment and service staff.
What you receive each day
Every full training day includes:
- Arrival tea and coffee, mid‑morning and mid‑afternoon refreshment breaks (tea & coffee selection, fresh fruit juices, assorted snacks).
- Harvest table lunch and refreshments (set menu).
- Operating equipment: data projector, screen, flipchart and markers, note pads & pens.
- Bottled water, conference parking and on‑site support staff.
These inclusions are not add‑ons – they are built into the daily experience so you can focus entirely on learning and assessment.
Course information
Venue: 54 on Bath Hotel, Rosebank, Johannesburg, South Africa
Dates: 6-7 September 2026: Introductory Sommelier Course and Lectures | 8 September 2026: Introductory Sommelier Exam and Certified Sommelier Examination
Our September 2026 program offerings
Option 1: Introductory Sommelier Course (Level 1)
Investment: R22 395 per person
What you get: Two intensive days of live instruction by Master Sommeliers, hands‑on tasting practice, service demonstrations and the official CMS multiple‑choice theory exam. Every training day delivers the full conference package (refreshments, lunch, AV, and support), so the price reflects both elite tuition and a premium, fully catered learning environment.
The experience: An intensive, fast-paced two-day review conducted live by Master Sommeliers, concluding with a multiple-choice theory exam.
Who it is for: Wine professionals, hospitality staff, and serious enthusiasts looking to align their global knowledge with international standards.
Prerequisite: None (Extensive self-study before the course is highly recommended).
Option 2: Certified Sommelier Examination (Level 2)
Investment: R11 350 per person
What you get: One rigorous exam day assessing theory, blind tasting and practical tableside service. Includes the same professional venue setup, refreshment breaks and exam‑day catering so candidates can perform at their best. Prerequisite: valid CMS Introductory Certificate.
The experience: A rigorous, one-day examination testing three core proficiencies: deep theory, blind tasting, and practical tableside restaurant service.
Who it is for: Working hospitality professionals ready to certify their skills officially.
Critical prerequisite: You must hold a valid CMS Introductory Certificate to sit this exam.
These programs pair unrivalled Master‑level instruction with a fully catered, professionally equipped conference experience.
How to register
Registration is handled exclusively online. Please follow these steps to secure your enrollment:
- Complete the online registration form: Click the link below and provide your exact details for invoicing.
- Invoice generation: Chenin Noir will issue and share your official tax invoice.
- Full pre-payment: Pay the invoiced amount in full via the specified payment channels.
- Registration confirmation: Your registration is officially finalised once full payment reflects.
- Seat allocation: Your seat is locked in!
Registration link: https://forms.gle/Bg9NvEUjCpTzz7sZ8
Don't miss the opportunity to elevate your career and join a global network of wine professionals this September.
For any queries, feedback, or offers of support, please email xolanim@cheninnoir.co.za.
The candidate graduation will take place on Tuesday, 8 September 2026 at 13h30 - 16h00. To RSVP, follow this link: https://forms.gle/n2fKXUdpgf8MKbxy7