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Frequently asked questions
General
The association organizes a variety of events, including wine tastings, masterclasses, educational workshops, and networking opportunities. Additionally, we collaborate with other entities to host events and offer tailored team-building or private events where wine plays a central role. Most tastings are supported by some 'tapas' (not a proper meal), which is beyond the scope of the Association. We try to accommodate dietary restrictions whenever possible.
If you are interested in exploring a partnership or are a producer looking to organize an event in Belgium or nearby regions, we offer our support. Please contact us via email at [president@eusommelierassociation.com](mailto:president@eusommelierassociation.com) to discuss your ideas and requirements.
No, there is no single “official” sommelier certification at the EU or global level. Sommelier credentials are issued by independent professional organizations, each with its own standards, reputation, and geographic influence. Instead of a unified certification, there exists a tiered ecosystem of certifying bodies—some dominant in Europe, others globally recognized. These organizations set their own benchmarks for education and certification.
Yes, we organize wine trips exclusively for our members. These trips are designed for small groups to ensure flexibility and a personalized experience. Due to high demand, our wine trips are often sold out before we can publish them. If you are interested in joining a wine trip, please contact us directly for more information.
No, an official accredited worldwide sommelier certification does not exist. The EU Sommelier Association relies on the expertise and knowledge of diverse schools, such as AIS and WSET, to provide high-quality education and training. However, it is important to note that there is no National, European, or Worldwide accreditation for sommelier certifications. Our focus is on delivering valuable knowledge and practical skills to our members.
Membership fees vary depending on the type of membership. Please visit our website or contact us directly for detailed information about the fees and benefits. To apply for membership, fill out the [membership form here](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1PEmhR5YNNFWmiv1lkfBQR-ksiwnzUWEGvlDrLsoTLsw/edit?usp=drive_web&ouid=115041385023260042128).
Yes, we require advanced payment to organize events. This allows us to properly collect and prepare the wine for the event, as our events often involve wine shipped from foreign countries. For details about our reimbursement policy, please visit [our reimbursement policy page](https://www.eusommelierassociation.com/general-5).
No, tickets are not personal. However, they can only be shared among members of the EU Sommelier Association. I.e. If a ticket is bought at a discounted price, to be transferred requires the beneficiary to be as well a Member. In case not, a surcharge equivalent to the Membership annual fee shall be added.
Food and beverages may be made available to participants on a complimentary basis during the event. Such provision is ancillary to the event and does not constitute a catering service.
Products offered may contain allergens. While reasonable care is taken in the selection of suppliers and products, the Association does not guarantee the absence of allergenic substances.
Participants are solely responsible for assessing whether any food or beverage is suitable for their personal health condition and must inform the Association in advance of any allergies or intolerances.
The Association shall not be held liable for adverse reactions or health issues arising from the consumption of food or beverages, in particular where no prior declaration has been made, or where such products are supplied by third parties.
Nothing in this notice excludes or limits liability where such exclusion is not permitted under applicable law.
Website Member: it is FREE and gives you access to the blogs and to a community space to share info and pictures. As a Website member you provide your email, that would be used to share news on our association.
Association Membership: it is a formal affiliation and entails and annual membership fee, it gives you priority access to our events at a discounted price. You become a member after following these steps: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1PEmhR5YNNFWmiv1lkfBQR-ksiwnzUWEGvlDrLsoTLsw/edit?usp=drive_web&ouid=115041385023260042128(https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1PEmhR5YNNFWmiv1lkfBQR-ksiwnzUWEGvlDrLsoTLsw/edit?usp=drive_web&ouid=115041385023260042128)
The AIS club for you in Belgium and Luxembourg
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