Wset Level 1 Award in Wines (In-Person) - Dec 2027

About this course

The course introduces the main factors that distinguish wine styles, including grape variety and production characteristics. Learners taste nine wines and use the WSET Systematic Approach to Tasting® to describe them. Other topics include the characteristics of Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir and Syrah/Shiraz, as well as food and wine matching, wine storage, service and common faults. Teaching takes place in a classroom and includes a practical food-and-wine pairing exercise. Assessment is through a 30-question multiple-choice examination, with a 70% pass mark.

What you'll learn

• Use the WSET Systematic Approach to Tasting® to describe wine.
• Identify characteristics of key international grape varieties.
• Distinguish between different wine types and styles.
• Apply key considerations when matching food and wine.
• Describe appropriate wine storage and service practices.
• Recognise common wine faults.

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for learners with little or no previous experience of wine or wine tasting. It may also suit people exploring a career change into the drinks industry. Participation includes guided tastings, a food-and-wine pairing exercise and a written multiple-choice examination.

• Suitable as an introductory course for people new to wine.
• May be relevant to learners considering work in the drinks industry.
• Includes a formal examination leading to a WSET digital certificate for successful students.

Before you go

• A WSET Level 1 Study Guide is provided in advance.
• Learners should notify the provider about conditions such as dyslexia that may qualify them for additional examination support.