Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW)

The Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW) Exam is a rigorous exam, which tests a candidate’s wine knowledge and mastery of key elements within the worlds of viticulture and wine production. This certification is widely recognized and regarded by the international wine industry. The CSW Exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions, with all question content drawn exclusively from the CSW Study Guide. Candidates are provided with one (1) hour in which to complete the exam. Candidates will purchase the CSW Exam through the SWE Catalog+Store. The Exam Authorization does not include any study materials. The 2026 CSW Study Guide may be purchased as a hard copy through Amazon. The 2026 CSW Study Guide is available as an eBook on Amazon, and is available as an eBook on Apple Books. The 2025 CSW Study Guide may be purchased as a hard copy through Amazon. The 2025 CSW Study Guide is available as an eBook on Amazon and as an eBook on Apple Books. Testing Locations (Schedule Online or In-Person): CSW exams are available online or in-person at Pearson Vue Testing centers. Candidates will be sent an authorization code after purchasing the exam credit on the SWE website. Candidates will then be able to schedule their exam for their preferred date and time either through Pearson Vue’s network of testing centers or at home online with a computer. Pearson VUE Testing center locations are in almost every major city in the United States and available worldwide. Exam registrations are good for one full year from the date of purchase. Candidate names must match their government issued ID. CSW Exam Availability: 2026 Study Guide: The CSW exam based on the 2026 edition of the Study Guide will be available at Pearson Vue Testing Centers through December 30, 2028. 2025 Study Guide: The CSW exam based on the 2025 edition of the Study Guide will be available at Pearson Vue Testing Centers through December 30, 2027. 2024 Study Guide: The CSW exam based on the 2024 edition of the Study Guide will be available at Pearson Vue Testing Centers through December 30, 2026. Specific topics tested include: Physiology of Taste, Wine Composition & Chemistry; Faults; Viticulture & Enology; Labels, Laws & Wine Regions; The U.S. Wine Industry; Wine’s Contribution to Health; Wine Etiquette & Service; Food & Wine Pairing; and Responsible Beverage Alcohol Service.