WSET 1
Wine Course
Your introduction to Wine at Under The Grapevine
The WSET Level 1 course is an accessible introduction to the world of wine. It offers a clear overview of key wine styles, major grape varieties, and important wine regions around the world. You’ll also learn how to taste wine with confidence, using the internationally recognised systematic tasting method.
The course includes the WSET Level 1 Study Guide. This comprehensive book provides clear and structured coverage of all topics required for the qualification, supported by diagrams and photographs. The study guide also includes practice questions to help you prepare for the multiple-choice examination. Its clear layout makes it a useful reference both during the course and afterwards.
"Everyone can learn to taste"
WSET 1 Wine Course Content
The WSET Level 1 course is structured into four modules, combining theory, tasting practice and practical wine knowledge. The course is designed to build understanding step by step, with plenty of guided tasting along the way.
Module 1: Wine Basics, Tasting & White Grapes
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A brief history of wine and winemaking
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Viticulture: grape growing, climate and soil
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Terroir: what it means and why it matters
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Winemaking: from grape to bottle
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Organic and sustainable wines
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Introduction to the WSET Systematic Approach to Tasting
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Key white grape varieties:
Riesling, Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay
Module 2: Exploring Wine, Classic Regions & Red Grapes
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Key red grape varieties:
Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Syrah -
Global wine production and the Dutch wine market
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Understanding wine labels
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Assessing wine quality and identifying common faults
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Wine storage and ageing
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Closures: cork versus screw cap
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Wine service and setting up a tasting
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Common misconceptions about wine
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Classic wine regions of Central and Southern Europe
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An introduction to Dutch wine production
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Guided tasting using the systematic tasting method
Module 3: The New World & Introduction to Food and Wine Pairing
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Classic and modern wine styles
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Key wine regions of the Northern Hemisphere
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Key wine regions of the Southern Hemisphere
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Introduction to gastronomy
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Ingredients, cooking techniques and garnishes
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Basic flavour theory and menu structure
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Fundamental principles of food and wine pairing
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Guided food and wine tasting session
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Continued practice with the systematic tasting method
Module 4: Examination, Tasting & Practical Advice
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Final review and exam preparation
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Tasting session with wines brought by participants
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Use of the WSET Systematic Approach to Tasting
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Examination for the Basic Wine Certificate
Learning to Taste Wine
Through guided practice and clear instruction, you will learn how to taste wine step by step using a professional framework. You’ll also practise systematic tasting at home during the course. No prior experience is required, everyone can learn to taste wine. During the course, you will taste a total of 20 carefully selected, good-quality wines, covering a broad range of styles and regions.
Your Wine Exam & Certification
The nationally recognised exam consists of:​
Theory
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30 multiple-choice questions
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3 short written questions
Tasting
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Writing tasting notes for 2 wines
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​Giving a food pairing recommendation for 1 wine
Exam results are sent by email within one week. If successful, the Basic Wine Certificate will be sent by post within three weeks after the exam.