Certified Educational Program on Italian Wines for Professional Sommeliers
By Kathleen Pokrud
The first certified course for professional sommeliers to focus exclusively on Italian wines is being held in Bangkok as part of the promotional activities to support Italian wine and spirits organised by the Italian Trade Agency (ICE) Bangkok in collaboration with the Italian Sommelier Foundation.
In recent years, the Thai wine market has experienced steady and dynamic growth. In 2024, total wine sales increased by 6%, and this upward trend is expected to continue in 2025, with a steady growth rate of around 5%. Italy has played a strategic role in this growth. It is currently among the top three wine suppliers to the Thai market, with a market share of 12% in 2024 and imports exceeding USD 16.5 million. This excellent result reflects the confidence that Thai consumers and businesses have in the quality, authenticity and tradition of Italian wines. The growing market and Italy's leadership position have provided a solid foundation for the development and launch of Thailand's first certified sommelier course focused exclusively on Italian wines to further support and shape this promising sector.
ICE Bangkok selected FIS – Fondazione Italiana Sommelier, an Italian certification body, to guarantee course participants an internationally accredited diploma, legally recognised by the Italian Republic and in 32 countries around the world. The course is being held over two weeks in October 2025 and two in January 2026 of six days of comprehensive training per week that goes far beyond tasting.
Taught by Sara Tosti, a FIS-certified sommelier, with the assistance of two Thai support instructors, certified sommeliers Mr Falan Srisuriyachai and Ms Sariya Kampanathsanyakorn, the course combines theory, guided tastings and the development of practical skills. Kampanathsanyakorn.
Thirty selected professional sommeliers from the restaurant sector, including many Michelin-starred restaurants, as well as trade and hotel sectors took part in the October classes. At the end of the course, the top three certified sommeliers will be offered a trip to Italy to discover selected wineries, with the opportunity to meet producers and taste new or lesser-known types of wines.
This program aims to be more than just a training course. It is an investment in the talent and future of the Italian wine industry in Thailand. Its aim is to support the development of a new generation of sommeliers, professionals and enthusiasts who will become ambassadors of Italian excellence in the Thai hospitality sector.
The program has seen the collaboration of Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel and selected importers who have contributed to providing over 70 Italian labels on site. Tops Wine Cellar – CFR, Vinum Lector, Independent Wine and Spirit Co., Italasia Trading Co., Bangkok Beer and Beverage Co, Ltd, and Texica Co have helped to make the tasting experience truly exceptional.
The graduation ceremony will be held in Bangkok on 30 January 2026 at the Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel.
