Course Catalog

WSET Level I Award in Wines

For individuals new to wine study, this qualification provides a hands-on introduction to the world of wine. You’ll explore the main types and styles of wine through sight, smell, and taste, while also gaining the basic skills to describe wines accurately, and make food and wine pairings. Upon successful completion you will receive a WSET certificate and lapel pin.

A beginner level introduction to wine suitable for those starting a wine career or pursuing an interest in wine.

This qualification has a minimum requirement of six hours of study time with a WSET course provider (in a classroom or online). Followed by a 45-minute closed-book exam of 30 multiple-choice questions.

There are no entry requirements for this qualification. You must be of legal drinking age in the country where you are attending the course to participate in any alcohol tasting. However, this is not a barrier to successfully completing the qualification.

WSET Level II Award in Wines

This qualification is intended for beginners wishing to learn about a wide range of wines or those seeking to build on the introductory knowledge gained with the WSET Level 1 Award in Wines. You’ll gain knowledge of the principal and regionally important grape varieties of the world, the regions in which they are grown, and the styles of wine they produce. Through a combination of tasting and theory, you’ll explore the factors that impact style and quality and learn how to describe these wines with confidence.

This qualification has a minimum requirement of 28 hours* of study time:

• 16 hours of delivery time with a WSET course provider (classroom or online)

• 11 hours of personal study and revision

• A 1-hour examination comprised of 50 multiple-choice questions

There are no entry requirements for this qualification. You must be of legal drinking age in the country where you are attending the course to participate in any alcohol tasting. However, this is not a barrier to successfully completing the qualification.

WSET Level III Award in Wines

For individuals seeking to delve deeper into the world of wines, this qualification provides a detailed understanding of grape growing and wine making. Upon completion you will be able to assess wines accurately, and use your understanding to confidently explain wine style and quality. Upon successful completion you will receive a WSET certificate and lapel pin, and will be able to use the associated WSET certified logo.

This qualification has a minimum requirement of 84 hours of study time, including 30 hours of classroom or online delivery time with a WSET course provider.*

• 30 hours of delivery time with a WSET course provide (classroom or online)

• 51.5 hours of private study

• A 2.5-hour examination comprised of two units

  • Unit 1 - Theory examination comprises 50 multiple-choice questions and a question paper requiring short written answers. The theory examination paper must be completed in two hours

  • Unit 2 - The tasting examination will consist of two blind wines and will assess a candidate’s ability to accurately describe a wine and draw conclusions based on these observations. The tasting examination must be completed in 30 minutes.

It is recommended that you hold the WSET Level 2 Award in Wines and Spirits or can demonstrate the equivalent level of knowledge. You must be of legal drinking age in the country where you are attending the course and exam to participate in any alcohol tasting. However, this is not a barrier to successfully completing Unit 1.