Odyssey Wine Academy and Commonwealth Wine School Announce New Chapter in Sonoma County Wine Education

HEALDSBURG, Calif., Aug. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Odyssey Wine Academy of Healdsburg, California, today announced its merger with Commonwealth Wine School, a leading provider of wine, spirits, sake, beer, and beverage education. The partnership marks a new chapter for Odyssey, expanding opportunities for students throughout Sonoma County, the North Bay, and beyond.

The merger brings together two respected wine education programs with a shared commitment to exceptional instruction, globally recognized WSET education, and an engaging, supportive learning experience.

Since launching in 2022, Odyssey has established itself as a destination for wine education in Sonoma County, offering WSET programs and wine-tasting classes in Healdsburg. By joining the Commonwealth network, Odyssey can build on that foundation with expanded online resources, educational support, and a pathway through the WSET Level 4 Diploma in Wines.

"From the start, we believed wine education is a journey, and all are welcome to come and explore," said Julie Rothberg, founder of Odyssey Wine Academy. "We've focused on creating a strong in-person experience. By becoming part of the Commonwealth network, we can now give our students access to online tools and a national team of educators that build on what's learned in the classroom."

The Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) is one of the world's most recognized providers of beverage education. Combining WSET's global standards with Sonoma County's local expertise gives students the opportunity to deepen their knowledge while learning in one of the world's great wine regions.

Commonwealth Expands Its West Coast Presence

The merger expands Commonwealth Wine School's West Coast presence from San Francisco to Healdsburg, adding a new location in the heart of Sonoma County. Commonwealth also operates programs in New England and offers online courses accessible to students everywhere.

"San Francisco has become an important part of Commonwealth's West Coast presence, building on the work of longtime wine educator Adam Chase, who ran Grape Experience Wine & Spirit School," said Jessica Sculley, founder and Director of Commonwealth Wine School. "Healdsburg allows us to extend that community into Sonoma County and partner with an organization that shares our passion for wine education that is thorough, engaging, and accessible."

Together, the schools serve a diverse mix of students—from those pursuing careers in wine, spirits, and hospitality to curious enthusiasts living among the vineyards of Sonoma, Napa, and Marin counties—as well as online students studying from locations around the world.

More Resources for Students

A key benefit of the merger is expanded support beyond the classroom. Commonwealth provides students with a full suite of digital study tools—including recorded lectures, flashcards, quizzes, and other educational resources—to reinforce classroom learning and support WSET exam preparation.

Students enrolled in the WSET Level 3 Award in Wines and the Level 4 Diploma in Wines also receive access to Wine with Jimmy study resources, which help make complex material more approachable and support students as they prepare for their examinations.

"Learning about wine is a lifelong pursuit and passion," said Rothberg. "Giving our students the tools to continue studying and practicing between classes is a tremendous advantage. This partnership allows us to offer a more complete educational experience."

The addition of Commonwealth's WSET Level 4 Diploma in Wines creates a new opportunity for Odyssey students and others throughout Sonoma County and the North Bay to continue their studies at WSET's highest level. Commonwealth's online programs make its courses and student resources accessible regardless of location.

A New Home at Maison Wine Bar

The new chapter also brings a new home for Odyssey Wine Academy. Beginning with the fall 2026 term, classes will take place at Maison Wine Bar in downtown Healdsburg.

Enrollment is now open at commonwealthwineschool.com for WSET wine and spirits qualifications, with courses beginning in September 2026. Information about the WSET Level 4 Diploma in Wines and Commonwealth's online courses is also available on the school's website.

About Commonwealth Wine School

Commonwealth Wine School provides wine, spirits, sake, beer, and beverage education in New England, San Francisco, and now Healdsburg, as well as online education accessible to students everywhere. The school offers every qualification available from WSET across wines, spirits, sake, and beer, including the WSET Level 4 Diploma in Wines, along with other professional and recreational education programs. Commonwealth combines experienced educators and thoughtfully curated tastings with extensive online learning resources and student support. Students enrolled in the WSET Level 3 Award in Wines and the Level 4 Diploma in Wines also receive access to Wine with Jimmy study resources.

About Odyssey Wine Academy

Founded in 2022, Odyssey Wine Academy is a Healdsburg-based wine education school offering engaging, rigorous, and accessible wine education in the heart of Sonoma County. The school offers WSET programs and other courses for wine enthusiasts, hospitality professionals, and members of the wine industry.

Media Contacts

Commonwealth Wine School
Jessica Sculley
[email protected]

Odyssey Wine Academy
Julie Rothberg
[email protected]

SOURCE Commonwealth Wine School