Determining Your Starting Level in WSET Spirits Education copy

Introduction: Deciding which level of certification to begin with in the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) courses is a common and significant decision for many aspiring wine enthusiasts and professionals. This article aims to guide you in choosing the appropriate starting level, ensuring a fulfilling and informative educational journey.

Deciding Your Starting Point:

Assess Your Knowledge: Reflect on your current understanding of spirits.
Consider Your Goals: Whether for personal interest or professional advancement, align the course level with your objectives.
Seek Advice: Don’t hesitate to contact us for personalized guidance.

Curious About Spirits?

Want to learn more about how clay stills operate for Mezcal? What Baijiu is? Or how a beer still works in bourbon production?

If so, WSET Spirits courses offer an in-depth, structured journey into the world of spirits, unlike anything the certification world has seen before.

Why WSET Spirits?

WSET Spirits courses are among the most sought-after certifications by industry professionals. Why? Because they use a scaffolded learning approach, where each level builds upon the previous one to develop mastery. This structured progression helps students retain and apply knowledge without gaps in understanding.

If you've taken any other WSET courses, you'll be familiar with this proven methodology.

Breakdown of WSET Spirits Levels

Level 1 – The “What”

Focus: Knowledge recall of fundamental facts.
Format: 4 weeks online or 1 day in-person.

Level 2 – The “Why”

Focus: Comprehension and explanation of the facts.
Format: 6 weeks online or 2 days in-person.

Level 3 – The “How”

Focus: Application of knowledge in appropriate contexts.
Format: 10+ weeks with 100+ hours of recommended study time.

Example: Agave Spirits Across the Levels

Level 1: Tequila
Level 2: Tequila and Mezcal
Level 3: Tequila, Mezcal, Raicilla, and Bacanora

At Level 3, you move beyond laws and label terms—you gain the ability to explain production techniques, such as the difference between a clay pot still and a large column still, and how these choices affect the final flavor in the glass.

Common Questions from Students

Can I start directly at Level 3 Spirits?

Not recommended. Even seasoned professionals benefit from WSET Level 2. It builds essential tasting methodology and production knowledge. Jumping straight into Level 3 often results in students struggling. Even those with the old WSET Diploma in Wines and Spirits should consider taking Level 2 Spirits to “dust off the cobwebs from the stills.”

I have other certifications. Can I start at Level 3?

Possibly. Contact our Student Success Team, and they’ll connect you with me for a conversation. Let’s figure out what’s best for you.

I'm ready to sign up. Anything I should consider?

Look at your next 3–6 months realistically. You need to commit at least 100 hours of study. That’s over three months if you study an hour a day. Success depends on more than reading the book and attending webinars—you need to engage with practice questions and rehearse explaining production steps.

Students often enroll during life transitions (e.g., moving or job changes) and find they don’t have the time to study. Plan wisely!

How should I prepare before the course begins?

Review the Level 3 Specification Guide—identify weak spots.
For me, Asian spirits were unfamiliar, so I used extra resources to prepare beforehand.
Revisit your Level 2 notes for a refresh.
Stick to the textbook during the course. External resources can overwhelm and distract.

Determining Your Starting Level in WSET Spirits Education copyUpdated 2 months ago