October 1, 2026 — The Court of Master Sommeliers, Americas (CMS-A) announces that applications for the fifth annual Women’s Sommelier Symposium are now open, effective October 1, 2026. The program will take place March 23–26, 2027, in the Willamette Valley, Oregon’s first established AVA, marking an exciting expansion for the leadership development initiative.
Since its launch in 2023, the Women’s Sommelier Symposium has become one of the wine industry’s most sought-after leadership programs for women, attracting more than 200 applicants annually for a limited number of participant positions. The program connects Certified and Advanced Sommeliers with Master Sommelier mentors for focused leadership development, education, and community building.
The 2027 Symposium will feature an engaging agenda that promotes professional growth and fosters meaningful connections. Key highlights include:
- Leadership-focused seminars featuring female entrepreneurs, business owners, and industry executives
- Small-group experiences with growers and wine industry leaders
- Tastings and interactive sessions with Oregon winemakers
- Educational wine seminars focused on wine evaluation and structure
- Collaborative conversations designed to strengthen peer mentorship and professional networks.
“Five years ago, we envisioned a program where talented women could come together to learn, grow, and support one another in an industry where mentorship and visibility matter,” said Emily Wines, MS, founder of the Women’s Sommelier Symposium. “To celebrate our fifth anniversary in the Willamette Valley, a region defined by collaboration and an extraordinary number of influential women leaders, feels both fitting and inspiring.”
Applications will be accepted through a competitive application process via the link HERE. Participants will be selected to join a distinguished group of female Master Sommeliers and industry mentors.
The Court of Master Sommeliers, Americas extends its gratitude to the sponsors, wineries, and industry partners whose continued support makes the Women’s Sommelier Symposium possible and helps create opportunities for women leaders throughout the wine and hospitality industries. Sponsors confirmed to date include Willamette Valley Wineries Association, Oregon Wine Board, Foley Family Wines & Spirits, Jackson Family Wines, Treasury Wine Estates, Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants, Domaine Serene, and Champagne Laurent-Perrier.
