top of page
  • LinkedIn
  • White Facebook Icon
  • White Instagram Icon

SASA Junior Sommelier Certificate

Aimed at service professionals with experience in the trade looking to formalise their skills with a qualification. Will require competent knowledge of South African wine, basic knowledge of international wine, competent understanding of professional service and be able to perform complex service tasks.

  • Junior Sommelier Examination Overview

  • How it works

  • The Junior Sommelier Examination, hosted by the South African Sommelier Association (SASA), is designed to assess foundational wine knowledge and core sommelier skills. It consists of two parts:

  • ​

  • Theory Paper: 50 questions (multiple choice and short written answers) covering broad wine topics.

  • Practical Exam: A real-life service simulation testing wine service, food and wine pairing, and general tasting skills.

  • ​

  • Key Preparation Areas:

  • Viticulture & Winemaking: Basics of vineyard and cellar practices.

  • Grape Varieties & Wine Styles: Key local and global grapes and wine types.

  • South African Wine Knowledge: Regions, styles, producers, and the Wine of Origin system.

  • International Wine Knowledge: Focus on classic regions and classification systems.

  • Product Knowledge: Wine labels, major producers, and terminology.

  • Other Beverages: Beer, cider, spirits – their production, ingredients, and service.

  • Sommelier Skills: Wine faults, serving temperatures, food pairing, and guest interaction.

  • General Knowledge: Industry news, awards, organizations, and trends.

  • ​

  • Candidates are encouraged to aim for a practical understanding rather than memorizing technical detail, with a primary focus on South African wine and hospitality standards.

You must be a member to take this exam.

Click HERE to become a member.

bottom of page