WSET Course Level 2

Wine and Spirit Education Trust courses provide globally recognised qualifications that are suitable for both wine industry professionals and wine enthusiasts.

This beginner to intermediate level qualification course provides a structured exploration of the world of wine and is suitable for wine enthusiasts or anyone wanting a career in the wine trade or hospitality.

This course runs over 3 consecutive Sundays. 

Who should consider studying for WSET Level 2?

This beginner to intermediate level qualification course provides a fantastic and structured exploration into the world of wines and is suitable for both industry professionals and wine enthusiasts alike. Attendees will gain knowledge of the principal and regionally important grape varieties of the world and the styles of wine they produce around the world. 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.

1. The WSET Level 2 Award in Wines course is globally recognised vocational training in product knowledge for those employed in the drinks industry who have little previous knowledge of the broad range of alcoholic beverages available. The qualification is suitable wherever a good level of product knowledge is required to underpin job skills and competencies. 

2. The course is also a great option for those not employed in the drinks industry who wish to study wine using a structured curriculum and formal assessment. Please note: you do not need to have completed WSET Level 1 in order to register for Level 2. The WSET Level 2 course is also a natural progression for those who have attended the Aberdeen Local Wine School 8-Week World of Wine Discovery.

3. The course is an absolute must for anyone considering pursuing a career in the wine industry. Achieving a good grade in this qualification provides the knowledge required for those wishing to progress on to the WSET Level 3 Award in Wines.

Course Synopsis

• Wine tasting: You will learn how to taste and describe wines using the WSET Systematic Approach to Tasting (SAT)
• Food and wine pairing: You will learn the principles of food and wine pairing
• Wine service and storage: You will learn the correct way to store and serve wine and how to recognise common faults found in wine
• Labelling: You will learn how to decode and understand wine labels
• Factors influencing the Style of Wine: You will explore how environmental factors, grape-growing, vineyard and maturation options influence the style and quality of the wines made all over the world
• Grape Varieties: You'll learn learn about the styles of wines produced by the key international red and white grape varieties (Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Merlot and Syrah/Shiraz) as well as the styles of wines made with 22 regionally important grape varieties grown in 70 wine regions (GI's) around the world
• Sparkling and Fortified wines: You will be taught how grape varieties and winemaking processes influence the style of wines in these two key wine categories

Course Dates and Times

• Sunday 29th June 2025, 10am-5:30pm
• Sunday 6th July 2025, 10am-5:30pm
• Sunday 13th July 2025, 10am-5:30pm (including exam)

Course Delivery and Materials

• Study Materials: Students will receive the WSET Level 2 Award in Wines course study pack upon arrival at the course. This consist of the course textbook (a comprehensive guide to the wines of the world), a study guide (complete with maps, example questions, and forms for your own tasting notes), and a laminated tasting card. 
• Recommended Private Study: You should be prepared to dedicate a minimum of 14 hours of study time outside of the classroom.
• Examination: 50 multiple-choice questions to be answered in 1 hour. A mark of 55% is required to pass.
• Certification: All students who pass will be issued with a certificate suitable for framing and a lapel pin.

Special Educational Needs: please make the School aware as early as possible if you have a condition which may mean that you will qualify for additional help during the exam such as dyslexia.