The Overcast – Fresh off the vine: Tracey Dobbin is back from France hoping you’ll give wine a chance

Tracy Dobbin was a young professional working as an occupational therapist, moving upwards in a safe, secure career that was relatively challenging and offered a solid future. It just wasn’t the future she wanted.

“I was looking at doing something different,” she says when asked how she decided to become a wine expert. “In 2008 I took the WSET [Wine and Spirit Educational Trust] Level 1 course, and In 2011 I moved to Bordeaux. They have an international wine school and I did my masters there, since I knew it would set me apart in terms of my education. Plus it was a chance to live in France.”

WSET® Certifications

WSET® represents the world reference for wine training. Spread over three successive levels, the course offered delivers internationally recognized diplomas at each stage. WSET® education is for everyone, amateurs and professionals alike.

» Learn more about WSET® certifications

Testimonials

  • Tracey is the best teacher I have ever had. She is amazingly patient and she refuses to let go before she has found the proper way to explain to me the things I don't understand, using different metaphors, approaches and…

    Benedicte Helvershou
    Product Manager - Norway

  • Just wanted to say thanks again for your great instruction in the class this past week.  You made the experience approachable, fun, and of course educational.  I am not sure if I will pursue level 4, but I feel this…

    Nathan Pryor, Managing Partner,
    Mainbrace International Ltd. - Halifax, Canada

  • As a student of Autour du Vin I wouldn't hesitate to recommend classes to anyone, whether it be someone in the trade or an enthusiast looking to learn more. Tracey has a way of using her personal experience and knowledge that not only makes the…

    Karen Nause
    - Halifax, Canada

  • I learned so much from you throughout the course. I since have been asked to train as a junior sommelier at Raymonds. I'm super motivated to learn more and hopefully start level 4 in the new year! Thank you for…

    Megan McDonald
    Raymonds Restaurant - Halifax, Canada

  • I had the privilege of taking some private tasting sessions with Tracey over the course of a year.  Each tasting was themed to focus on a particular region, and each class began with a detailed introduction of the region and…

    Kaitlin Lanthier
    - London

  • Sitting in Switzerland by lake Geneva and sipping some local gamay, swirling and checking out red fruits and acidity :)) omg your class was soooo interesting and I am so impressed how knowledgeable you are! And inspiring!! You have a…

    Helga Natas
    Sovex Grands Chateaux - Export Manager -

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