Hand Picked Wine School
Hand Picked Wine School
Welcome to the Hand Picked Wine School, the premier wine academy offering an exclusive sommelier apprenticeship in the UK. Led by our Head of Wines, Louise Gordon, our program allows aspiring wine experts to earn and learn in our stunning properties while achieving the prestigious WSET Level 3 qualification.
How to Apply to the Hand Picked Wine School
Are you passionate about wine and eager to advance your career? Our wine academy offers the perfect platform to develop your skills and achieve your goals.
View all our opportunities and apply today
OVERVIEW
The purpose of the Wine School is to ensure each hotel has at least two wine experts that can confidently speak, train and upsell wines.
The Wine School will equip these team members with the knowledge and expertise to become the wine experts at their hotel and ensure they have the right skills, knowledge and confidence to fulfil their roles as wine experts.
The Wine School's key aims are to:
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• Attract the very best young talent directly to Hand Picked Hotels through our sommelier apprenticeship.
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• Provide our employees with a programme that furnishes them with the very best skills.
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• Create a unique learning environment and development programme that is inspiring and creative.
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• Build a strong relationship between Hand Picked Hotels and our apprentices, embedding employer values and creating employee loyalty.
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• Create a career path to suit ambitious young sommeliers while encouraging them to build their experience within Hand Picked Hotels.
PROGRAMME OUTLINE
Our sommelier apprenticeship is open to any team members who have passed their probation and obtained WSET Level 2 at Merit or above. They will serve as the hotels’ wine ambassadors and will spend a year being mentored by Louise Gordon, Hand Picked Hotels’ Head of Wines and immersed in the industry.
What the Programme Includes:
- • Advanced training leading to WSET Level 3 certification.
- • Development of service, sales skills, and extensive product knowledge.
- • Creation of training plans to share wine knowledge with team members.
- • Support from the Head of Wines and collaboration with other WSET Level 3 holders.
- • A 12-month journey featuring visits to suppliers, our own vineyard, and overseas trips.
Why Choose the Hand Picked Wine Academy?
- • Exclusive Learning Environment: Train in luxury hotel settings.
- • Expert Mentorship: Learn from industry leader Louise Gordon.
- • Career Advancement: Clear path to becoming a certified sommelier.
- • Networking Opportunities: Engage with professionals and suppliers.
- • Travel Experiences: Visit vineyards and attend international wine events.
Embark on Your Sommelier Journey
View all our opportunities and apply today
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is eligible to join the Wine School?
Team members who have passed their probation and achieved WSET Level 2 at Merit or above are eligible.
2. What qualification will I receive?
You will earn the WSET Level 3 certification upon successful completion.
3. How long does the apprenticeship last?
The program spans 12 months of immersive learning and practical experience.
4. What kind of travel opportunities are included?
Participants will visit our suppliers, including trips to our own vineyard and international destinations.
5. How does this program benefit my career?
The apprenticeship provides advanced training, certification, and networking opportunities, positioning you for senior roles within the wine and hospitality industry.
Embark on Your Sommelier Journey
Take the next step in your wine career with the Hand Picked Wine School.
