Launching spring 2021

Become a Certified California Wine Expert

Wine Institute invites you to explore Capstone California, the essential education program for California wines.
Developed by an expert team of leading wine professionals, educators and authors this comprehensive program
provides an in-depth understanding of wines from the Golden State.

California Wines Seal Capstone California logo

A Comprehensive Study of California Wine

Presented by Wine Institute

The program offers four levels of study, from novice to expert. Each builds on the level prior, and covers history, lore, geography, climate, soils, grapes, viticulture, vinification, aging and maturation, wine laws, official classifications, producers, vintages and the business of wine.

Comprehensive Wine Study

A structured learning experience For professionals and enthusiasts
  • Four Levels of California Wine Certification

    Capstone California offers four levels of study: from Introductory to Expert levels. Upon completion of each level, you will receive a certificate of completion and privileged access to tastings and other events.

  • A Global Faculty of Wine Experts

    Capstone California offers four levels of study: from Introductory to Expert levels. Upon completion of each level, you will receive a certificate of completion and privileged access to tastings and other events.

  • Study at Your Own Pace

    Capstone California offers four levels of study: from Introductory to Expert levels. Upon completion of each level, you will receive a certificate of completion and privileged access to tastings and other events.

Valley Quail Vineyards Zin grapes on the vine
Valley Quail Vineyards Zin grapes on the vine Valley Quail Vineyards Zin grapes on the vine

Capstone California Education Panel

The curriculum and study guides have been developed by the Capstone California Education Panel, a prestigious team of globally recognized experts including journalists, Masters of Wine (MW), Master Sommeliers (MS) and leading wine educators. The Education Panel is comprised of renowned authors with a deep familiarity of their subject, and top wine writers with their finger on the pulse of the industry and provides up-to-date and verified information on the California wine industry.

Develop your California wine knowledge with our Capstone California Wine Certification program, reviewing the Study Guides by grape variety or region, supported by useful maps and tools available in our Resources section.

To receive additional information about Capstone and to reserve your place, please join our mailing list.