Abbreviation for "Institute of Masters of Wine"; see under Masters of Wine.
The Institute of Masters of Wine (IMW) was founded in 1955 in London (Great Britain) by a group of wine merchants in cooperative collaboration with the London Vintners Company, which was founded in the 13th century. Incidentally, the "Wine Trade Club" founded in 1908 by the famous wine merchant and wine author André Simon (1877-1970) is regarded as the forerunner. However, the first examination for the prestigious title of "Master of Wine" had already taken place in 1953, when six out of 21 candidates were chosen. The aim in the founding year was to provide special training to create a demanding qualification in the British wine trade, thereby helping it to achieve better quality and reputation. Initially, only candidates who could demonstrate many years of practice in a relevant position in a relevant company or institution could sit for the examinations.
In 1983, these strict regulations were relaxed and, among others, wine writers were also admitted. Non-UK candidates were not accepted until 1987. Eventually, preparatory seminars completed outside the UK were allowed. This is...
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