WSET® Level 3 Award in Wines & Spirits

An advanced level qualification for professionals working in the wine industry and for wine enthusiasts. 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.

1. Identify the principal natural and human factors in the vineyard and winery that are involved in the production of still wines of the world and explain how they can influence the style, quality and price of these wines.

2. Identify and describe the characteristics of the still wines produced in the principal wine producing regions of the world and explain how the key natural and human factors in the vineyard, winery, law and commerce can influence the style, quality and price of these wines.

3. Identify and describe the characteristics of the principal sparkling wines of the world and explain how the key natural and human factors in the vineyard, winery, law and commerce can influence the style, quality and price of these wines.

4. Identify and describe the characteristics of the principal fortified wines of the world and explain how the key natural and human factors in the vineyard, winery and law can influence the style, quality and price of these wines.

5. Demonstrate the ability to provide information and advice to customers and staff about wines.

The Total Qualification Time for the Level 3 Award in Wines is 84 hours, made up of 32.5 Guided Learning Hours (including the 2.5 hour examination) and 51.5 hours private study.

Assessment: Unit 1 comprises 50 multiple-choice questions and a question paper requiring short written answers with four questions of 25 marks each; Unit 2 is assessed by a blind tasting of two wines.

It is recommended that you hold the WSET Level 2 Award in Wines or can demonstrate the equivalent level of knowledge. You must be of legal drinking age.