WSET Level 1 Award in Wines

Ever wondered why some wines feel crisp and lively while others are bold and plush? Curious how to describe what you taste? The WSET Level 1 Award in Wines reveals the essential styles and tasting skills, helping you explore wine with confidence. 

If you’re new to the world of wine, this qualification provides a hands-on introduction. You’ll explore the main types and styles of wine through sight, smell and taste, while also learning the basic skills for describing wines accurately and making food and wine pairings.  Upon successful completion, you’ll receive a digital certificate. Find out if this course is right for you. 

 

 

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

Our WSET Level 1 Award in Wines introduces the world of wine through hands-on learning and guided tasting. You’ll explore key wine types and styles, understand common grape varieties and gain the skills to describe, serve and pair wines with confidence. 

What's covered?

  • The main types and styles of wine 

  • Common grape varieties and their characteristics 

  • How to store and serve wine 

  • The principles of food and wine pairing 

  • How to describe wine using the WSET Level 1 Systematic Approach to Tasting Wine (SAT) 

COURSE DELIVERY

 

Courses are available in-person or online through our global network of course providers. The Level 1 Award in Wines requires: 

  • 6 hours of guided learning with a WSET course provider 
  • A closed-book exam 

Our course providers offer the course in a variety of formats, for example over consecutive days, weeks or evenings. You can also be study through WSET’s Online Classroom, an interactive e-learning platform where you complete activities at your own pace over five weeks, under the guidance of an expert educator. 

Available to study in these languages:

  • English
    (English) 

  • 繁體中文
    (Chinese Traditional) 

  • Nederlands
    (Dutch) 

  • Français
    (French) 

  • Deutsch
    (German) 

  • ελληνικά
    (Greek) 

  • Italiano
    (Italian) 

  • 日本語
    (Japanese) 

*Delivery will vary by course provider; however, this is the minimum requirement that should be met.

“WSET qualifications have given me the basis to develop my wine expertise. I’ve been inspired by the classes and have made contacts within all areas of the wine industry.”

Grace Matterson, Student, UK

COURSE INFORMATION

Entry requirements

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

Requirements may vary by course provider. 

 

Assessment

Assessment is by a closed-book exam of 30 multiple-choice questions. This qualification is regulated by Ofqual. 

We’re committed to making our exams fair and accessible and ensuring that no candidate is placed at a disadvantage. If you have any special requirements or need to request reasonable adjustments, please discuss this with your chosen course provider. 

 

Course specification

For more information and full details on the course requirements, please download the Specification below:

 

When can you enrol?

Courses will be offered through an international network of approved programme providers. 

To find your nearest course provider, head to our Where to Study page below.