What is WSET and what are its levels?

The WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) is a leading international educational organization for training and certification in wines, spirits, and sake. Founded in 1969 in London, WSET has established itself as a global benchmark by offering study programs designed for both industry professionals and wine enthusiasts.

Why is it important?

WSET training is globally recognized for its academic rigor and practical approach. Hospitality professionals, sommeliers, merchants, distributors, and enthusiasts choose it because it provides a common language and a solid framework of wine knowledge. WSET certifications not only elevate technical understanding of wine but also build confidence in communicating and applying that knowledge.

WSET Wine Levels

WSET offers a progression of wine study levels, starting from basic fundamentals up to advanced knowledge:

🔹 Level 1 – WSET Award in Wines

• Description: A basic introduction to the main styles of wine, grape varieties, and fundamental concepts.
• Objective: Ideal for those new to the world of wine or working in basic service roles.
• Requirements: No prior knowledge or experience required.
• What it covers: Most common grapes, storage and service, principles of food and wine pairing, and simple wine descriptions.

🔹 Level 2 – WSET Award in Wines

• Description: A beginner-to-intermediate level course exploring the world's main grape varieties, wine regions, wine styles, and the factors that influence quality and style.
• Objective: Designed for both industry professionals and enthusiasts who want to go beyond the basics.
• Requirements: Level 1 is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended as a foundation.
• What it covers: The Systematic Approach to Tasting (SAT), factors influencing production and style, labeling, service, and food pairing.

🔹 Level 3 – WSET Award in Wines

• Description: Advanced training that provides a deep understanding of the key factors that determine the style, quality, and price of wines from around the world.
• Objective: To prepare students for the professional analysis and evaluation of wines.
• Requirements: It is recommended to have completed Level 2 or demonstrate equivalent knowledge.
• What it covers: Factors influencing still, sparkling, and fortified wines, plus tasting and evaluation using the advanced SAT.

Note: Each course includes wines for tasting exercises, official WSET materials, and certification upon passing.

Where can these certifications be taken?

WSET certifications can only be taught through Approved Programme Providers (APP), which are centers authorized by WSET to offer these courses to global quality standards.

Culinary is an institution that has been an accredited WSET provider for 14 years, offering official wine training with certified instructors and specialized teaching experience. This accreditation allows those who study with Culinary to obtain official WSET certification upon passing their exams.

Upcoming WSET course dates at Culinary

These are the scheduled dates for 2026:

🍷 WSET Level 2 Award in Wines (Ensenada)

• Date: March 9, 10, and 11, 2026
• Location: Bodegas de Santo Tomás, Ensenada
• See details here
  

🍇 WSET Level 1 Award in Wines (Tijuana)

• Dates: April 7, 14, 21, and 28, 2026
• Location: Culinary, Tijuana
• See details here
  

🍷 WSET Level 2 Award in Wines (Tijuana)

• Dates: May 5, 12, 19, 26, and June 2, 2026
• Location: Culinary, Tijuana
• See details here
  

🍇 WSET Level 3 Award in Wines (Ensenada)

• Date: June 1st to 6th, 2026
• Location: Cevit, Ensenada
• Check the details here
  

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WSET certifications are a powerful tool for both wine professionals and enthusiasts who want to master the language, technique, and deep understanding of the wine world. With progressive levels—from introductory to advanced—and confirmed dates at Culinary for 2026, it is the perfect time to start or continue your wine education with globally recognized standards.

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