How can I become a Water Sommelier? Follow this guide to become an expert in the world's most important beverage 💧
- Timo Bausch I Zertifizierter Wassersommelier
- Jun 27
- 3 min read
Water is much more than just a thirst quencher; it is a natural product with its own unique characteristics, origins and history. If you're interested in exploring the diversity of mineral waters, sensory analysis and the health benefits of water in more depth, becoming a Water Sommelier could be a great option.
But how do you actually become a Water Sommelier?
In this article, I will outline the different courses available, what you can expect from them, and which providers are particularly popular.
Why become a Water Sommelier?
Expert knowledge of mineral water is in constant demand, whether in gastronomy, retail, healthcare or at events. Water Sommeliers advise, train, taste, develop concepts and raise awareness of one of our most valuable beverages among the general public. They analyse the origin, mineralisation, taste and effect of different waters on our bodies, and share their findings with others. They also help mineral springs to market and promote unique waters.
Which providers are available?
1. Training at the Doemens Academy (Gräfelfing near Munich)
The Doemens Academy is a pioneer in Water Sommelier training and was one of the first institutions worldwide to offer recognised training courses with certificates.
The training covers for example:
- Basics of water science
- Sensory analysis and professional tasting techniques
- Minerals and their effects
- Legal basis and labelling law
- Mineral water in the catering trade
Format:
The training usually takes place over two weeks on a full-time basis and ends with a written and sensory examination. The course is offered in both German and English. However, there are now also courses in other countries in the local language (e.g. Spanish).
Price: €2,990 plus VAT
2. The Fine Water Academy
The Fine Water Academy offers a comprehensive online training programme for becoming a certified Water Sommelier. This can optionally be complemented by a special certificate for Brand Managers.
The training covers for example:
- Basic knowledge of water sources, minerality, pH value, taste, temperature, and water labelling
- An in-depth study of topics relating to the origin of water, water regulations, the environment, and pairing water with food, coffee, and tea, as well as creating your own water-pairing menus
- The course ends with a practical project and a personal video examination.
Format:
Although the course is entirely digital, it is also offered as a hybrid option, with interactive live Zoom sessions with Dr Michael Mascha to ensure individual support. The course takes approximately 3–4 months to complete.
Price: $ 2,200
Course details: https://finewateracademy.com
3. Martin Riese – International WAter Alliance (USA)
Martin Riese is one of the world's best-known Water Sommeliers. This is largely thanks to his TV appearances and social media presence. Although his course is tailored specifically to the American market, it also caters for an international audience.
The training covers for example:
- The history of water
- Types and sources of water
- Carbon dioxide content
- Taste vs. flavour; and what is TDS?
- Discover the different container and packaging options for water
- Alkalinity and TDS, does coffee dry you out and how much water you should drink?
Format:
The training usually lasts 1.5 hours and provides only a brief overview of the world of mineral waters, compared to the Doemens Academy.
Price: $ 99
Conclusion:
Each Water Sommelier training course has its own strengths and special features. These may relate to the content, teaching methods or practical component. It is therefore worth taking the time to compare the different programmes and find the one that best suits your personal goals. Having completed the training at the Doemens Academy myself, I can only speak about this course from my own experience, but I would highly recommend it.
I hope this article has helped you to decide. Perhaps we'll be Water Sommelier colleagues soon!
Tip:
Still unsure whether pursuing a career as a Water Sommelier is the right choice for you?
Then my online tasting session is just the right introduction for you! During this session, I combine exciting theoretical basics with practical sensory analysis. You will get to know six special mineral and healing waters, and you will have the opportunity to taste them and learn to distinguish one from another. It's the perfect introduction to the world of water, and you can enjoy it with up to four other people from the comfort of your own home at any time.
With that said: Drink water, #stayhydrated
Best regards
Timo Bausch
Certified Water Sommelier
About Timo Bausch
My fascination with mineral waters began in 2016 during my training as a Water Sommelier. Since then, I have been exploring the characteristics and diversity of water. In addition to pairing water with food, wine, coffee and other beverages, I offer the creation of water menus for restaurants and hotels. Furthermore, it is also important to me to draw attention to the importance of drinking water.
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