"Fostering Irreplaceable Sommeliers" J Wine Company Launches First Cohort of 'J, THE SOMM'

Sommelier Competency Enhancement Program
Practical and Theoretical Lectures by Four Leading Korean Experts

On August 9, J Wine Company announced the official launch of the first cohort of its sommelier competency enhancement program, "J, THE SOMM," designed to cultivate experts who will lead the future of Korea's wine industry.

With Korea's gastronomic culture and sommelier expertise reaching a world-class level, "J, THE SOMM" aims to provide practical education that goes beyond simple knowledge transfer, enabling participants to grow into "irreplaceable, unique sommeliers."

The program, held over a total of ten sessions, systematically covers the essential competencies required of wine professionals. Through modules such as "Sommelier & Hospitality" and "Business Competency Enhancement," participants will develop service and business acumen, while lectures on "Winemaking" and "Viticulture" will deepen their fundamental understanding of wine.

In addition, the program will offer in-depth exploration of the unique characteristics of major wine regions such as Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Champagne, helping participants expand their portfolios. Finally, a blind tasting and final examination will be conducted to select the top sommelier.

This program will be led by four of Korea's top wine industry experts, including Yang Jinwon, CEO of Drink Guide; Choi Taehyun, CEO of Podogonghwaguk; Kim Jooyong, Head Sommelier at Jueun Restaurant; and Hong Gwanghyeon, CEO of YourSom.

A representative from J Wine Company stated, "J, THE SOMM is more than just an educational program; it is an investment in the qualitative growth of Korean wine culture. We will provide full support to ensure that participants can advance to a higher level of expertise through this course."

The first cohort of J, THE SOMM will be offered to sommeliers and F&B managers from J Wine Company's existing and potential client companies, and will take place at the J Wine Building from August 25 to December 8.