The phrase refers to preparatory assessments designed to evaluate an individual’s knowledge and skills relevant to the initial certification within a sommelier program. These assessments often simulate the format and content of the actual examination, providing candidates with a realistic preview. For example, a candidate might engage with a multiple-choice question set covering wine regions, grape varietals, and basic service standards.
Such preparation is beneficial because it facilitates familiarity with the test structure, identifies areas of strength and weakness, and builds confidence. Historically, aspiring sommeliers often relied solely on textbooks and formal training; however, the advent of structured self-assessment tools has enabled more effective and targeted study. This focused approach can significantly improve success rates on the certification examination.
