Empire Mixology is proud to announce the release of its ninth and tenth expert-level certification programs: the Expert Cognac & Brandy Certification and the Expert Sparkling Wine & Champagne Certification. These two distinct, in-depth courses are now available exclusively through UMixology.com, further expanding the Empire Mixology curriculum for serious spirits and wine professionals.
With this milestone, Empire Mixology now offers ten expert certifications, each designed to provide a deep dive into a specific category of spirits, wine, or advanced mixology.
Expert Cognac & Brandy Certification: Old World Elegance, Modern Expertise
This program explores the rich world of aged grape distillates, from the chalky soils of Cognac to the high-altitude vineyards of South America. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of:
The history and classification of Cognac, Armagnac, and global brandies
Grape varietals and their role in distillate character
Regional regulations and geographic indications
Distillation methods, aging techniques, and blending philosophies
The influence of terroir and barrel maturation
Cultural significance and modern market trends
This certification is essential for anyone seeking to speak fluently about brandy-based spirits, whether in the tasting room, behind the bar, or in the classroom.
Expert Sparkling Wine & Champagne Certification: Precision in Every Bubble
Champagne may be the world’s most iconic sparkling wine, but it’s only the beginning. This program explores the breadth of traditional and modern sparkling wine production from across the globe, including:
The méthode traditionnelle, tank method, ancestral method, and hybrid techniques
Key regions including Champagne, Franciacorta, Cava, Sekt, California, and beyond
The science of bubbles: pressure, bottle fermentation, and disgorgement
Grape varieties and their role in texture and flavor
Global classification systems and labeling terminology
The evolution of sparkling wine culture and celebratory symbolism
Perfect for sommeliers, educators, wine professionals, or curious enthusiasts, this course delivers a refined understanding of one of the most technical and expressive wine styles in the world.
What This Milestone Means
With the release of these two new certifications, Empire Mixology’s Expert Track now includes the following ten disciplines:
Whiskey
Gin
Tequila & Mezcal
Vodka
Rum
Wine
Beer
Liqueurs
Cognac & Brandy
Sparkling Wine & Champagne
Each program consists of fully online modules, designed to build expert-level theoretical understanding. Learners can complete them on their own schedule and receive digital certification upon passing.
Now Accepting Enrollment
Enrollment for both new expert certifications is open now at UMixology.com. Whether you're a bartender, sommelier, hospitality professional, or dedicated enthusiast, these programs are built to deepen your expertise and elevate your career.
Join The Empire Society to gain access to exclusive resources, tasting templates, service tools, and professional downloads that complement your certification journey.
