The Institute of Masters of Wine is a professional organisation with unsurpassed international reputation. Its main objectives are to promote knowledge, understanding and an appreciation of wine whilst upholding the highest wine industry standards.
Its members have proved their understanding in all aspects of wine by passing the Master of Wine examination, recognised worldwide for its rigour and high standards.
A successful candidate will have demonstrated a thorough and broad knowledge on viticulture, winemaking, and the business of wine as well as the skill to communicate clearly and the ability to taste and evaluate wine competently.
Members are required to sign the Institute's Code of Conduct before they are entitled to use the initials MW, the most respected title in the world of wine. The Code of Conduct requires MWs to act with honesty and integrity.
The first Master of Wine exam was first held in 1953 in London, UK. London is the Institute’s base and the exam takes place every years and simultaneously in Napa Valley, Sydney and London.
There are 370 Masters of Wine today working in 28 countries.