If you thirst for more wine knowledge, you can gain a wine qualification!
At Cambridgeshire Local Wine School, we offer WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) courses.
Initially designed for industry professionals, these days most of our WSET students are ordinary wine enthusiasts wanting to deepen their appreciation of wine. Occasionally we have restaurant staff, bar staff or staff in wine shops.
All WSET courses are OFQUAL regulated and you'll receive an internationally recognised qualification if you pass.
WSET Level 1: Beginner
Level 1 is great for learning fundamentals and gaining new confidence when selecting and discussing wine. This course assumes no prior knowledge, but it is not a prerequisite for Level 2.
- Duration: one day (typically Sunday)
- Ideal for: beginners
- Focus: getting to grips with wine basics and best-known styles
- Tasting: 6-8 wines
- Exam: 30 multiple-choice questions in 45 minutes
Click here to find out more about the Level 1 course.
WSET Level 2: Beginner to Intermediate
Level 2 is also for beginners (you can start here - you don’t first need Level 1).
This course explains the key grape varieties and why wines taste different in varying climates. You will also understand winemaking and food and wine pairing and develop your tasting skills.
- Duration: 3 days
- Ideal for: beginners (develops you to intermediate)Focus: key grape varieties, major wine regions, factors influencing wine style
- Tasting: at least 40 wines across the 3 days
- Exam: 50 multiple-choice questions in 60 minutes
Click here to find out more about the Level 2 course.
WSET Level 3: Advanced
Level 3 is a significant step up, offering a deep dive into the wine industry. It's perfect for anyone wanting to seriously enhance their wine knowledge and tasting skills or consider a career in wine or hospitality.
- Duration: 6 whole days, including exam day
- Ideal for: those who've completed Level 2 or have equivalent knowledge
- Focus: in-depth study of viticulture, vinification, and key wine-producing regions
- Tasting: over 60 different wine styles
- Study Time: Recommended 54 hours outside of classroom
- Exam: blind tasting of two wines plus a 2-hour written exam (multiple-choice and short paragraph questions)
Click here to find out more about the Level 3 course.
Choosing your level
When deciding which WSET level to pursue, consider:
- Your current wine knowledge
- Time you can commit to study
- Your goals (personal interest vs. professional development)
- Preferred learning style (brief overview vs. in-depth study)
- Budget and time constraints
Remember, each level builds on the previous one, but you're not required to start at Level 1. Many people start at Level 2.
Whether you're looking to start your wine education journey or take your existing knowledge to new heights, there's a WSET course for you at Cambridgeshire Local Wine School.
