The Sommelier Prep Course - by Michael Gibson (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

While the subject of wine, beer, and spirits continues to grow in popularity, there are very few books that approach the subject in an accessible manner and that also contain the pedagogical features needed by instructors. In addition, most books cover the subject of wine only, while hospitality students need a broader base on knowledge that also includes beer and spirits. After finishing the book, readers will be prepared to take the introductory certification exams of the Court of Master Sommeliers, International Sommelier Guild, and Society of Wine Educators and receive a first-level certification.

Divided into five parts, Gibson covers wine, beer, and spirits. Along with a history of each type of beverage, he also covers how these beverages are produced and manufactured, varieties and styles of these beverages, and food pairings. Most importantly, Gibson covers costing, pricing, merchandising, marketing, and storing wine, along with creating a balanced wine list and table service.

From the Back Cover

A complete introduction to wine, beer, and spirits for aspiring sommeliers, bartenders, and wine lovers

Whether you're studying for sommelier certification or you're a bartender who wants a better understanding of the beverages you serve, The Sommelier Prep Course offers the best up-to-date information on wine, beer, and all varieties of spirits. This heavily illustrated introductory guide covers New World and Old World wines, viniculture and viticulture, and fermented beverages such as sake, mead, and cider as well as beer and spirits. Students will find powerful study resources, including review questions, key terms, maps, sample wine labels, and a pronunciation guide with more than 1,200 terms.

"At last, the wine enthusiast has access to a comprehensive work that approaches the wine and spirits culture in laymen's terms and delivers a wealth of detailed information in a format that is a joy to read. Michael Gibson's The Sommelier Prep Course is a must-have reference work for wine lovers and industry professionals alike. Historical and technical information, global diversity, and the often-asked questions are brilliantly addressed in this outstanding work."--Bob Foley, Winemaker and owner, Robert Foley Vineyards, Napa Valley, CA

"Any candidate who is in the process of studying for their introductory level certificate will find Mike Gibson's The Sommelier Prep Course very helpful. Mike has taught candidates how to pass this introductory level course for years, and this experience has allowed him to distill everything someone needs to pass this exam."--Eddie Osterland, America's first Master Sommelier

About the Author

MICHAEL GIBSON is lead instructor for wine and spirits at the Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Scottsdale. He is a certified specialist of wine with the Society of Wine Educators and a certified sommelier with the American Chapter of the Court of Master Sommeliers. He also works in the beverage industry as the director of operations for a wine and spirits distributor.