ASI Prep Exam
Association de la Sommellerie Internationale

The ASI Prep Exam is an internationally recognised introductory sommelier certification from the Association de la Sommellerie Internationale. It is designed for anyone taking their first steps into the world of wine service, whether as a student in hospitality or catering, a front-of-house professional looking to specialise, or a wine enthusiast seeking a formally recognised credential.

This introductory exam provides a structured and accessible entry point to sommelier education, covering core wine knowledge, grape varieties and styles, basic tasting methodology, service etiquette, and food-and-wine pairing principles.

What is the ASI Prep Exam?

Woman with long curly hair sips white wine in a vineyard

The ASI Prep Exam is an introductory written assessment that explores the foundations of sommelier knowledge and wine service through a structured multiple-choice format. Students gain a grounding in core wine and service skills, building the confidence and vocabulary needed to begin a professional career in sommellerie.

Topics covered include:

  • An introduction to the world of wine and sommelier service

  • Key grape varieties, wine styles, and wine regions

  • Basic principles of food and wine pairing

  • Service etiquette and professional sommelier skills

  • An introduction to tasting methodology and wine vocabulary

Who Should Take This Wine Course?

Man's hand pours red wine into a line of stemless wine glasses outside on a checked tablecloth

The ASI Prep Exam is ideal for:

  • Students in hospitality, hotel management, and catering programmes

  • Front of house and restaurant staff considering a move into wine service

  • Wine enthusiasts looking for a formally recognised introduction to sommelier skills

  • Anyone considering progressing to ASI Certification 1 or further sommelier qualifications

It is specifically designed for beginners with little or no previous formal wine or sommelier training.

What is the Format of the Course ?

Two men and a woman sniffing and sipping wine in a wine tasting room

The ASI Prep Exam is a written assessment, available in multiple languages and sat through an approved ASI member association.

Exam features include:

  • 50 multiple choice questions at introductory level

  • Written format with no practical tasting component

  • Available in multiple languages

  • Pass mark of 60%

  • Results assessed by the ASI Exams and Education Committee


Upcoming ASI Prep Exams

Check back for more dates coming soon!

More ASI Courses