Court of Master Sommelier Debuts in Indonesia
Voyagers.id – For the first time, the prestigious Court of Master Sommelier (CMS) certification program was officially held in Indonesia, marking a significant milestone for the country’s hospitality and wine industry. The event took place on October 4–6, 2025, at Fairmont Jakarta, bringing global recognition to Indonesia’s growing community of sommeliers.
The three-day program featured two days of intensive workshops led by distinguished Master Sommeliers:
- Ronan Sayburn MS, CEO of CMS Europe,
- Kamal Malik MS, the first Master Sommelier from India, and
- Yohann Jousselin MS from France, currently based in Hong Kong.
On the final day, participants undertook both the Introductory and Certified Sommelier exams, which tested theoretical knowledge, blind tasting skills, and wine service performance. A total of 21 sommeliers participated—18 from Indonesia and 3 from Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore.
Results were announced immediately after the exam. Indonesia proudly welcomed 9 new Introductory Certified Sommeliers and 3 new Certified Sommeliers.
Top scorer for the Introductory level was Muhamad Yusud Breda (Biko Group), while Adam (Union Group) achieved the highest score for the Certified level.
“It’s wonderful to bring the CMS certification to Indonesia for the first time. Today’s results show that Indonesian sommeliers are on par with their international peers,” said Ronan Sayburn MS, CEO of CMS Europe, who confirmed that the program will return in 2026.
The success of this milestone event was made possible through the leadership of Kertawidyawati, founder of Widya’s World of Wine and Jaddi Academy, who was officially appointed as the Indonesia organizer for CMS. Widya is also recognized for introducing the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) program to Indonesia and for her continuous efforts in professional wine education through various initiatives.
“It’s truly rewarding to see the CMS certification finally held in Indonesia. This marks a new chapter in elevating the standards of the sommelier profession nationwide,” said Widya, who also expressed gratitude to Asia Wine Institute, led by Tommy Lam, for their long-standing support of CMS programs across Asia.
The event was made possible through the collaboration of key sponsors including Jaddi International, Indonesia Sommelier Association, Lucaris Crystal, Lotus Food Service, Barton & Guestier, and others. Each participant received a Lucaris crystal glass set, while top scorers were awarded a limited-edition series.
The Court of Master Sommelier is a globally recognized institution dedicated to raising the standards of wine service and hospitality. Its certification levels—Introductory, Certified, Advanced, and Master Sommelier—represent the highest achievements in the sommelier profession.
The inaugural CMS program in Indonesia not only highlights the country’s growing appreciation for fine wine and service excellence but also positions Indonesian sommeliers firmly on the world stage.
