The California Dreaming Sommelier Tour 2025 July 6 – 12

The California Wine Institute aims to build a network of enthusiastic sommeliers that have a particular desire to showcase a diverse line up of California wines on the menu.
With over 150 different AVA’s and many wines that have won the hearts of many leading restaurants around the world, this study visit aims to develop new ambassadors in the restaurant scene across key cities in Europe.

The California Dreaming Sommelier Tour welcomes sommeliers, wine directors, and buyers from top restaurants in Germany, Switzerland, The Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, France and Poland to attend our immersive educational program in the wine regions of California.

During the Sommelier Tour, you will
• Tour the wine regions of Sonoma County, Napa Valley and Central Coast
• Meet the winemakers and taste a very wide range of their wines
• Explore their vineyards, discuss soils, climate, clonal selection, trellising, water,
sustainability and organics, alternative varietals, and latest technologies.
• Get technical with the vintners in the cellars on every aspect from yeasts to clones to
cooperage.
• Attend themed tastings conducted by vintner-panels and well-known wine educators
• Enjoy great food

Requirements
This visit aims to select the winner of the National Sommelier competition and an additional 10
Sommeliers who can apply for a seat on this trip. You must be active as sommelier, wine
director, and/or restaurant buyer
Each guest must have passed the Capstone level 1 or 2 course (free of charge) prior to joining
the trip (www.capstonecalifornia.com)

Each guest must be registered in the California Stars guide (www.starwinelist.com/california-
stars) on Star Wine List (as *, ** or ***)

How it works
The California Wine Institute will host 20 sommeliers on a week-long visit.
We take care of your airfare, lodging, meals and local transportation
This trip is meant to increase your knowledge and interest in California wines.
It is also meant to provide inspiration for your wine list.
Please send in your application form to Tania Da Costa (dacosta@us-export.nl) with motivation,
including your intentions for expanding your wine list alongside your current wine list.

Download APPLICATION FORM

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS IS JANUARY 31ST